Hi All can anyone tell me how I can work out what length spin poles I need for an old spinny I have been told there are three different types for spinny so I take it I need to measure the spinnaker as well any help greatly recieved

All the Merlin class rules can be found on the RYA site below. This includes all the measurements.

I would go for maximum length pole even on an old size small spinnaker. Two reasons for this:
1) If you upgrade ever to a big kite you won't need new poles. Secondhand big kites are easy to get hold of these days. See for sale page.
2) The further away the kite is from the main/jib, the better the air flow. To keep the shape right maybe leave the head several inches from fully hoisted.

Out of interest from memory the new pole is about 1 foot longer than the old. If anyones disagrees with me please go ahead...

Ross

i'm finally going to upgrade to long poles and a big spinny on my old boat (3245) so i'll sell you my old poles if you like. they are right for a 10yr old spinny i think.

James,

How old is 'old'?  If it is 1980's or later, then the old 6ft pole or the current pole (2.3m) would be fine.  If it pre 1980's, then it may or may not be the pocket handkercheif spinnaker, in which case, a mirror jib stick is about right!  I am sure one of the class' greybeards will remember the exact dimensions!  Me?  Far too young....

4'6" untill about 1964 then 5'

Boat Number is 2294 not quite sure when it was built was called rigmarole built in St Mawes Cornwall Have some newer spinnys not quite sure of the date on them though will have to dig them out over the weekend.

Boat No is 2293 not 2294 it's to early to be at work

Have just looked at the spinny's they are from the mid to late 80's and from 91 to 99 so there is some difference I think.

from that period, 6ft or 2.3m will work very well.

GGGGGGGG

Mags e-mail me if you want to sell you poles and how much do you want for them Cheers James MR2293