Currently sorting out MR 2349

Design is a Superstition.

As I have no experience of the class, please can someone give me some base numbers for;

1) Distance from inside of transom to base of mast.

2) Rake (at gooseneck)

3) Distance from centreline to initial jib turning block.

The boat has an hog-stepped original gold proctor D.The step is a single position bakelite affair that seems to be too far forward, in that in the step the mast is back from vertical because of the front of the deck aperture. I am thinking of replacing this wioth an adjustable old style Proctor step but not if any of those of you in the know can tell me what I have is ok.

Any advice gratefully received.

We've got the old gold Proctor D and the adjustable step on 2121. Goes well with the right sails - cut for correct height and foot length. Not sure about measurements for a superstition - ours is a Proctor 9D. If no one else replies I'll measure in a couple of days.

Thanks for replying. When you say height and foot, is this between black bands, or do Merlin masts vary in height?

Are there different ratios bewtween main and jib size?

I get the feeling I ought to attend a vintage event and speak with people.

Hi Giles There's a vintage event at Banbury this saturday, do turn up if you can. There will be quite a mixture of old merlins - and yes all different! But I'm sure you will be welcome and enjoy things too. Then there is an event at Shearwater in October (Wiltshire) this is a CVRDA and Vintage merlin event combined.

Yes merlin masts vary, yes, between black bands and yes ratios vary - it's daunting at first.

Do get a certificate - if you didn't get it with the boat write to the RYA with a £20 cheque for bribery/fee and ask for a replacement certificate for Merlin xxxx. The original measurements will be on it and you can then check the mast is still the same and hunt for sails to fit.

Oh and if you can get down to Shearwater we'll be there - the mainly vintage Merlin fleet is about 10% of the club! May be able to find you a crewing job too - Garry's popping down from Aberdeen.