SO35 Mainsail Batten Pocket Puzzle

[C-Spirit]

Hello,

The Elvstrøm main has some odd batten pockets with a velcro lined pockets (inside) and a 15cm velcro strip out side so when you have put the batten in the velco on the strip is supposed to stick to the velcro inside holding it in with no baggage outside. Sounds ok but when you look at the logistics of achieving this and the tightness of the pocket, it makes it almost impossible to push in with out sticking instantly.

We did manage to do it by inserting a plastic bread knife after putting the batten in and using it as a gap filler between the 2 pieces of opposing velcro, once in at max depth it was still hard sliding the knife out. I am also concerned that the way we managed this has possible caused us not to put the batten in far enough or not have the correct tension through the pocket. Although as stated in my other post the sail does sit nicely.

Is there a specieal tool out there to do this, or must I keep the old plastic bread knife in my tool box with the "do not throw away" sticker on!

Dan

[corksailor]

yes
There is a special tool Any sailmaker would have one but a 10in length of batten is probably just as good.There is a small pocket at the tip of the velcro to insert the end in before you push.

[reverie]

Hi Dan,

Yes, there is a special tool. Really just a long, narrow piece of what appears to be batten material. I'm sure you can get one at your local sailmaker, but it's fairly easy to improvise. Sounds like you've got the technique right. Just be sure the piece of string remains outside the sail, otherwise you may have difficulties removing the batten later.

John

[efitz]

You don't actually need a special tool.
The top batten is the tool! It fits in the pocket slightly differently to the others, so is easier to remove.

Just take this one out first, and use it to separate the velcro in the others. Simples.

I found this out the hard way of course!

[Don Reaves]

I used to use the top batten as a tool, especially since it was always available when I needed it. But the problem is that it doesn't fit the small pocket at the tip of the velcro. As a result, it often doesn't do a good job pushing the tab in. I've even managed to damage the stitching on one. So I would recommend a tool that fits.

[Full Circle]

I keep a 12 inch piece of 25mm contract batten with a thin closed cell foam handle held on with gaffer tape.
That allows you to thump the end of the batten to prod the flap down if it gets stuck, without hurty hurty your hand.

I keep it in the toolbox, marked with indelible laundry marker:
Batten Prodder Do Not Throw Away.