Sail Stays for 1987 Bic Sailboard

Question
Hey Windlover...

I'm 52 now and in better shape than I was 15 years ago, and have this 1987 Bic Sailboard, but have lost the sail stays....

Got any ideas?  Some kind of home-made fiberglass rig with some kind of "handle" to get it taut with the nylon straps? or someone out there with those parts?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

 -Frank


Answer
Hey Frank,

If you are anywhere near a windsurf shop, take the sail in and they should be able to fit up some aftermarket battens. If you are not near a shop, you will have to take some measurements and contact some shops about buying and shipping new battens to you.

To measure, find where the batten pocket ends at the luff (mast end) and measure from there to the end of the tensioners when they are connected. You can loop the batten tensioners into the ladder buckles and set them to their loosest point and measure to the end of the loop. This should get you where you need to be for all but the battens nearest the boom. You want these to be longer as they shape the sail more and need more length. You should add about 6" on the two longest battens.

You should actually add about 2-4" on all of the batten measurements to ensure you have enough length. Then you can trim them down after they are inserted and you are able to determine how much length you need. With the tensioner at close to it's loosest point and the batten snug in the pocket, this is where you should have your length. Use a hacksaw, fine tooth saw or dremel tool to cut the batten. They will be fiberglass so wear eye protection and gloves when cutting.

Be sure to ask for the end caps on the battens as this will save wear and tear on the sail pocket and the tensioners.

If you need to find a shop, check out Windance in the Gorge or online at windsurfingmag.com - links section for a listing of shops. You may have to email or call to ask for battens as many places won't list them on a website.

Hope this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover