ASA ASA Sail Trim & Performance

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of adjusting the traveler on a sailboat?

Accepted Answer

To control the boom's athwartship position and mainsail angle

Answer

To adjust forestay tension

Answer

To change the position of the jib lead

Answer

To control the boom vang

Question 2

When sailing upwind, what does 'easing the outhaul' do to the mainsail?

Accepted Answer

Adds draft (depth) to the lower portion of the sail

Answer

Flattens the sail for better pointing

Answer

Increases luff tension

Answer

Moves the draft forward

Question 3

What is the function of the cunningham on a mainsail?

Accepted Answer

Controls luff tension to move the draft position forward or aft

Answer

Adjusts leech tension

Answer

Controls boom height

Answer

Reduces sail area

Question 4

In light air, how should the jib leads typically be positioned?

Accepted Answer

Forward and inboard to create a fuller sail shape

Answer

Aft and outboard to flatten the sail

Answer

As far aft as possible

Answer

At the chainplates

Question 5

What does 'telltales flowing on both sides of the jib' indicate?

Accepted Answer

The sail is properly trimmed with smooth airflow on both sides

Answer

The boat is in irons

Answer

The sail is stalling on the leeward side

Answer

The sail needs to be eased

Question 6

When is the boom vang most useful?

Accepted Answer

Downwind to prevent the boom from rising and the sail from twisting

Answer

Upwind to depower the sail

Answer

When motoring to secure the boom

Answer

When reefing to control the clew