We just purchased a 1986 Sunfish yesterday. Originally we thought we would start out on a Hobie 16, but then decided that since we are new to sailing the Sunfish seemed to be the best candidate for us to learn on. Used Sunfish sailboats are difficult to come by, and when this one appeared for sale in our classifieds, I immediately contacted the seller, and we are now the proud owners of this great '86 Sunfish sailboat. I think we got a good deal for $700. It came with two sets of sails; however, one of the sets needs to be repaired.
I am concerned about the trailer though and need some instruction on how we can customize this trailer so we can haul our Sunfish safely. We really don't know what we're doing and I want to make sure we are not going to cause any damage to our boat by not having in properly placed and supported on this trailer. I'll include some photos, and maybe you all can help us out with this.
Here are some photos of how the boat was sitting on the trailer when we took it home. Everything seems to be wrong, and I hope we didn't damage our Sunfish trailering it this way for around 50 miles. We have since moved the front and rear rubber rollers so the keel rests on them, but is it okay to support the hull in this way? We also have the bow positioned in front of the rubber support instead of just resting on top of it. Also, what is the best way for tying down the boat? How much tension and where do you properly place the tie downs?
This is the damaged sail. How do I repair this tear, or is this sail a goner?
I am concerned about the trailer though and need some instruction on how we can customize this trailer so we can haul our Sunfish safely. We really don't know what we're doing and I want to make sure we are not going to cause any damage to our boat by not having in properly placed and supported on this trailer. I'll include some photos, and maybe you all can help us out with this.
Here are some photos of how the boat was sitting on the trailer when we took it home. Everything seems to be wrong, and I hope we didn't damage our Sunfish trailering it this way for around 50 miles. We have since moved the front and rear rubber rollers so the keel rests on them, but is it okay to support the hull in this way? We also have the bow positioned in front of the rubber support instead of just resting on top of it. Also, what is the best way for tying down the boat? How much tension and where do you properly place the tie downs?
This is the damaged sail. How do I repair this tear, or is this sail a goner?