Boom for an IP38

[dlauginiger]

I am considering an 38' offshore cruiser with in-boom furler. After looking at the boat in person, I have several concerns with this rig:

1. The mainsail "attaches" to the mast via standoffs. The engineer in me says these standoffs weaken the rig as the mainsail doesn't actually attach to the mast.

2. The boom has to be at just the proper angle for it to be raised or lowered. Although that angle can be changed via an adjustable, rigid boom vang, this seems like it would be a major P.I.T.A. offshore in a blow.

3. If I convert back to a regular boom with a stack pack, will that be expensive (i.e., boom, re-cut mainsail and install slides/cars, possibly new goosneck, etc.)


Does anyone out there have experience with in-boom furlers and/or converting back to a more basic rig?

David