Downhaul

The Flaw in Factory Double Blocks On an RS 200, efficiency is the difference between leading the pack and fighting the wake. Many sailors rely on standard double blocks for their control lines, but these fittings harbor a hidden weakness. When one sheave carries the tension of the kicker while the downhaul remains slack, the block capsizes. This misalignment creates parasitic friction. Instead of a smooth run, your lines grind against the side of the block, chewing through expensive rope and destroying the hardware over time. Essential Rigging Gear To overhaul this system, you need to strip away the bulk. Gather these materials to modernize your setup: * Stainless steel screwdriver for fitting removal. * 2.5 mm Dyneema for custom soft attachments. * High-performance single blocks (one per control line). * One low-friction ring for the grab rail take-up system. Step-by-Step Single Block Conversion 1. **Deconstruct the Setup**: Back out the screws on your existing deck fittings. Remove the double blocks entirely. 2. **Fabricate Soft Attachments**: Use the 2.5 mm Dyneema to create soft loops. These allow the new single blocks to pivot freely and find their natural lead. 3. **Install Single Blocks**: Mount a dedicated single block for each line. This ensures every control line aligns perfectly with its pull vector, regardless of what the other lines are doing. 4. **Streamline the Grab Rail**: Pull the over-engineered double block off the grab rail. Replace it with a lightweight friction ring. This tidies the lines without adding unnecessary mechanical complexity. Victory Through Friction Reduction By moving to independent single blocks, you eliminate the mechanical interference that plagues stock RS 200 setups. Your controls will feel buttery smooth, allowing for micro-adjustments in high-pressure tactical situations. Execution on the water requires gear that responds instantly. This bimble ensures your hardware never fights your strategy.