Hi, I figured it was time for a new title.

The Melges has 380 sqft between the main and jib. Bigger main and smaller jib than the standard E27 set up. The way #16 has been set up it uses the standard E27 sails. However, I think I'll pick up a used M24 main and try it with the E27 jib. Should be a very easy set up to handle.

I also have the choice of masthead and frac rigged kites. I'm thinking of having a masthead reaching A-kite tacked to the pullpit and a frac rigged symm-kite on the standard pole.

When the Melges rig with its swept spreaders was put on the boat the engineering was done barroom napkin style, if at all. Some deck cracking indicates that partial bulkheads will have to be installed to properly take the rig loads (too bad the survey guy didn't notice this!). Other than that #16 would be fairly easy to convert back to a standard E27.

RonB.