I am currently in the process of designing a new dodger, as the previous one needed to be replaced. In addition, it was too short and I'd hit my head on it every time I entered the companionway. The new one will be somewhat taller, but still short enough to see over when standing, and much easier to see through when not.

The problem I'm running into is that no matter how I design the framework I cannot come up with a design that will actually protect the companionway from rain, due to the mounting position of the mainsheet. As you can see in the photo, I have temporarily tied up a main bar as far back as possible, without interfering with the sheet (assuming the third block was attached to the forward bail.I have temporarily tied what was the forward block to the second bail, and tied what was the middle block to position in between the 2nd and 3rd bails. This would allow me to move the frame back about 10 in, providing substantially better protection from the elements.

This reduces the spacing between blocks by one half. Do you see any concerns with this plan that I may not have considered? It would still allow free clearance of the sheets as the boom moves from one side to the other.

Thanks for any suggestions. There is a lot of merit to learning from one's mistakes... I'd just prefer that they not be mine.

Jack Webb

I considered that. I might be more prone to move it aft, as it would take less hardware (I think). I have Bud's SS boomkin, but looking to see if there's anything else I would need to add for it to work. Either way, I would love to have the mid-boom area clear for a sailing awning or Bimini.

Jack