Minor hull repair/Downhaul Question

[Baxter]

Hi all, first question
After hauling my DSII out last weekend I noticed a small chip in the hull near the centerline, no bigger than 1/8" but it's through the gelcoat and I can just barely see F/G. I'm going to be going back out on the water for a few weeks still though. This fall I plan to strip the old anti-fouling and re-apply. Is there anything anyone can suggest for a temporary repair, since it's getting new antifouling I suppose I don't need to match the gelcoat.
My second question is about the downhaul. I have both a grommet near the tack of the sail AND an eyestrap on the gooseneck. I've been using the gooseneck fitting. What is more effective? And assuming someone says the tack grommet, how would I lash it? bowline to the downhaul cleat?
Thanks again to everyone who helps us newbs!

[jpclowes]

Baxter:
I would use a little epoxy putty. Marine Tex 2 part epoxy works pretty well, and is pretty easy to use in small amounts. Put it on, let it cure and sand smooth.

My DS has a line from the boom, to a cleat. Then I put the lower grommet in a fitting on the boom that is designed for that. The upper grommet ( I have 2) I run a cunningham line, so I can flatten the sail in a blow. I have it run through the deck to a cam cleat under the cuddy roof. (DSI)

[Baxter]

Hi again J
Well I use the sail tack grommet for the gooseneck fitting too.
I only have one downhaul cleat on the mast. If your using BOTH the eyestrap downhaul and the extra tack grommet 5 inches above the locking tack grommet what's the difference? It seems like they both achieve the same result.
Thanks again

[jpclowes]

Hi Baxter

I only use the upper one when I want to depower the main a little bit, like in heavy air. If you pull it down, it takes some of the belly out of the sail. More than you can take out by pulling down the whole boom. The flatter sail has less power. But still more power, and a better shape than you have if you put in a reef.
In other words, the lower grommet gives the sail a better, more wing-like shape, the upper one changes that shape so that it has less lift. Something that might be handy on Lake Eire.

[Baxter]

Ahh, I gotcha! Thanks. I'll try it out this weekend.
Do you use just a bowline, you wouldn't use a stopper would you?
Thanks again.

[jpclowes]

Well, until a few weeks ago, I had a hook tied to the end of the cunningham. But it mysteriously disappeared the day my brother borrowed my boat to take his girlfriend sailing. I have been using a stop knot, but don't think it is the best solution. I just haven't had the time to get to West Marine, and get a new one. I've thought about a bowline, but it would be a big one, and I don't think that is the best solution either.