j80 sailboat parts

• facebook-alt

J/80 Best Practices

International class website

J/80 Brochure by J/composites EU

J/80 Owner’s manual

Spars and Spare parts by Rig-Rite

Technical specifications

Hull & Deck Construction

• Composite hull and deck of GRP balsa sandwich with E-glass fabrics, additional reinforcing in way of highly loaded hardware.
• Vinylester and ISO NPG gelcoat in hull for osmotic gelcoat blister protection.
• Molded GRP main bulkhead to absorb the direct loads of the shrouds and mast compression.
• Mast step loads are distributed to aluminum frame fastened to the main bulkhead.
• Hull is reinforced in way of keel with several transverse molded stringers.

Deck Hardware

• Large modern cockpit with molded foot braces on centerline.
• Non slip finish to all horizontal deck surfaces in white.
• Molded Toe-rail forward.
• Bolts, screws and fitting are all made of stainless steel, marine grade anodized.
• Stainless steel forestay attachment plate.
• Stainless steel pulpit single lifeline.
• “U” bolt on the foredeck.
• Stainless steel chain plates for cap shrouds, lower, shrouds and backstay.
• Opening hatch (420 x 420 mm) mounted on cabin trunk forward of mast.
• Two black anodized jib T tracks with cars.
• Boom vang system (12:1) with swivel mounted cleats, on both sides of the coach roof.
• Mainsheet traveler with coaming mounted (2:1) control line, cleats.
• Mainsheet system (5:1) with swivel cam cleat and ratchet block on cockpit sole.
• Cleats and blocks for backstay adjustment (4:1) led forward in cockpit to port and starboard.
• Two 30:1 primary winches with cam cleats.
• Internal bowsprit launching line led aft through fairleads to cabin trunk cam cleat.
• Bullseye fairleads for furler control line (port with cam cleat) and tack line (starboard) to cabin side mounted clutch.
• Two halyard storage bags shipped loose.
• Spinnaker sheet blocks outboard of winches and aft.
• Two stern pulpits.
• Single continuous lifeline.
• One fixed cabin window on each side of cabin side.
• GRP main sliding hatch with acrylic one piece offshore drop board.
• Winch handle.
• Bow and stern running lights.

Keel & Rudder

• Low VCG keel cast from lead and antimony, faired and finished with an epoxy primer and secured by way of stainless steel bolts to the integral molded hull sump.
• Reinforced FRP rudder on transom with stainless steel fittings.
• Laminated varnished wood tiller, with adjustable tiller extension.

Spars & Rigging

• Mast and boom in anodized aluminum.
• Headsail roller furling on headstay.
• Two pairs of swept spreaders.
• Stainless steel wire standing rigging with turnbuckle adjusters.
• Backstay with adjustment tackle led to both sides of the cockpit.
• Complete running rigging package.

Outboard Motor

• Optional owner supplied, minimum 3.5hp long shaft recommended.
• Low transom suitable for direct mounting of a 3 or 4 hp outboard.
• Removable cabin sole.
• Molded settee berths with access to storage below.
• Large forward V-berth platform with two access panels above mast step.
• Large removable molded step with space for an outboard and cooler to be stored aft.
• Crane lifting bar integral to keel bolt system.
• Interior reading light.
• Electrical panel.
• Battery box with straps (battery owner supplied).

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)

Designed using Veloce . Powered by WordPress .

Stable, fast, and capable, the J/80 is a modern sport boat. From its beginnings and proven with numerous J/80 championships, Quantum Sails continues to lead the pack with innovative designs using premium cloth that deliver performance and durability on the racecourse. Our fast sails are complemented by Quantum's J/80 class experts, who offer tuning resources and J/80 experience. Whether preparing for a World Championship, looking to make gains in your local racing fleet, or honing your keelboat skills, our J/80 resources will help you achieve your goals. Completely NEW for 2024, the MX23 mainsail, JM23 jib, and SR23 spinnaker are now available. Order today or contact your local Quantum J/80 one design expert to discuss your racing program goals.

• Class Experts
• Links & resources

J/80 Mainsails

J/80 Main - MX23

The all-new MX23 design delivers power, performance, and durability and excels across a wide wind range. The MX23 features an updated panel layout to promote overall twist, additional draft, and a more vertically balanced profile.   Constructed from premium Dimension Polyant cloth for incredible shape retention, the class mainsail is an all-purpose workhorse that responds to sheeting inputs, performs on every leg, and exceeds the demands of J/80 sailors. INCLUDES: Luff rope, spreader windows, sail numbers, RBS fiberglass tapered battens, draft stripes, loose foot, Velcro clew strap, tack slug, roll bag, and ISAF measurement sticker with class royalties.

J/80 Headsails

J/80 Fusion M Jib - JM23

The JM23 jib has a completely new fiber layout that increases camber to deliver performance across all conditions. The new design incorporates an updated leech profile with maximum class roach at the top batten that enables the sail to be sheeted hard in light-to-moderate winds while still maintaining the ability to twist as the breeze increases. The result is power and better flow for increased boat speed and handling. Designed to be furled and built to be durable, the jib maintains a smooth entry for power and trims easily in lump and chop. The JM23 is constructed of lightweight Fusion M® laminate that is strong and holds its shape across the wind ranges. This jib and our race-winning MX23 mainsail are the perfect upwind set. INCLUDES:  Tube bag, RBS fiberglass battens, draft stripes, telltales, and ISAF measurement sticker with class royalties.

J/80 Spinnakers

J/80 Asymmetrical SR23 - Airx 600

The SR23 is our new class all-purpose runner designed with additional camber to increase stability and aid when sailing deep angles, making it much easier to trim than our previous class spinnakers. Designed with maximum class-legal projected area, our J/80 Asymmetrical Spinnaker is fast and easy to control downwind. Constructed of premium cloth for durability and performance, the spinnaker is available in AIRX600 or Superkote60 to suit your needs on the racecourse. Whether in soaking low mode or bow up conditions, top teams choose the Quantum J/80 SR23 spinnaker for speed and control. INCLUDES: Spectra luff line, leech and foot line, stainless tack ring, web clew, drawstring bag. and ISAF royalties. Custom colors available.

J/80 Asymmetrical SR23 - Superkote 60

Choose a team member.

Fernando Sallent

• P: +34-93-2242778
• E: [email protected]

When Fernando Sallent was 10 years old, a friend of his father bought him an Optimist dinghy. From then on Fernando was hooked. As an adult, his first business venture was Technik Boats, a small Optimist shipyard, but it was the physics of sailing that really intrigued him. "I always had a passion for finding a way to make boats go faster," he said.

That passion led him to La Industrial Velera Marsal, a local sailmaker who made all of his sails by hand. Fernando worked there learning the basics of sailmaking while also running Technick Boats. After taking a year off to serve in the military, he decided to leave Technick and joined Toni Tio Sail Loft. Toni Tio was only designing cruising sails at the time, so Fernando came on board to lead the One Design section of the company.

In 1996, Toni and Fernando visited the Quantum Annapolis loft, and in 2000 they joined the Quantum Sails team. Fernando continues to design One Design sails as he works to help his clients improve on the water. "I love seeing how sailors do better when the product is improved," he said. "I love the fine tuning of boats and sails on the water."

An accomplished sailor, Fernando also works as a coach for many teams. He coached the 470 women's world, Olympic, and European champions in 1992 and the 470 women's world champions in 1995. Since 2000, he has advised the Norwegian, Swedish, Swiss, and Spanish Olympic teams.

• Nationality: Spain
• Position: Sail Designer
• Current Town: Barcelona

Career highlights

• 1992 Olympics – 470 men’s gold medal, 470 women’s gold medal, Europe Dinghy silver medal
• 1996 Olympics – 470 women’s gold medal, 470 men’s bronze medal
• 2000 Olympics – Europe Dinghy bronze medal
• 2004 Olympics – Europe Dinghy gold medal, 470 women’s silver medal, 470 men’s bronze medal
• 2008 Olympics – Tornado gold medal, 470 men’s bronze medal
• 2012 Olympics – 470 women’s gold medal
• 470 Class – 1992-95 men’s world champion,
• 1992/1995-96/2005/2011 women’s world champion
• Optimist – 1993-96/2004 world champion
• Europe Dinghy – 2003-04/2010 women’s world champion
• 2004-06/2010-12 men’s world champion

Kerry Klingler

• P: 914-924-3466
• E: [email protected]

When Kerry Klingler was eight years old, his father decided sailing would be a good sport for the family to enjoy together. Kerry and his dad learned to sail at the same time, and Kerry fell in love. He started to race competitively at the local yacht club, and by the time he was a senior in high school he knew he wanted to make the sailing industry his career. He dreamed of life as a sailmaker and decided to pursue that dream.

Kerry jumped into the industry and found himself not only making sails, but running a loft as well. While he appreciated the opportunity to stay in the industry, he felt his talents growing stale. "I was designing sails, but no one was pushing me to the next level as a maker or designer," he said. "I started looking for a position where I could design with a company that was technologically advanced so I could become a better, smarter, more advanced sail designer."

He found that opportunity at Quantum Sails. As the J-Boat Team Leader, Kerry not only designs sails for some of the largest One Design fleets, he also gets out of the loft to help his clients get the most out of every sail. Though people recognize him as a dedicated sailmaker, he’s also working hard all the time to provide the best service and products for their boats.

"I teach them first," he said. "I show them how to tune the boat, how the sail should sit on the boat, how to trim it, and more. It's a pretty comprehensive session where I try to infuse as much knowledge as possible."

• Nationality: USA
• Position: J-Boat Team Leader
• Current Town:
• J/80 – 4-time North American champion, former world champion and top competitor since 2000
• J/109 – 5-time North American champion
• Numerous big boat races, including success on J/133 and J/146. Most recently winning the Newport to Bermuda race on Apollo, a new J/121.

Carlos Rodriguez

• E: [email protected]

When Carlos Rodriguez was four years old, his mother worked for a One Design boat company. She started taking him to races on the weekends, and it didn’t take long before Carlos started racing. When he was just 17 years old, the Catalonian Sailing Federation offered him a job, and he’s been sailing ever since.

Carlos started working at a Quantum Sails loft in 1996. After learning how to make sails on the floor, service sails, and design sails, he became a salesman. Carlos not only spends almost every weekend racing in local and national events with Quantum customers, serving as a skipper, tactician, and jib-spinnaker-mainsail trimmer, he also trims masts, finds crew members, provides certificate optimization in ORC, and even services sails during races. Carlos now serves as the Spain Regional Manager and works hard to make Quantum Sails Spain a full-service, one-stop loft for all sailing needs.

professional racing crew member since 1995, Carlos has an extensive resume, including experience on Mega Yachts, ORC boats, IRC boats, One Design, etc. He has also won several races like Copa del Rey in Palma, Maxi Yacht Cup, Swan Cup, and many important races in the Spanish ORC circuit.

• Position: Spain Regional Manager
• Spain Tir (X-362)
• Camper and Trasmediterranea (First 40, 7)
• Freixenet (JV46)
• Zurich (GP42 and BC41)
• Fermax (GP42)
• Santa Anna (JV57)
• Siemmens Mobile (Farr 42)
• Icaro (D44)
• Garmin (DK46)
• Iberdrola (Soto 40)
• Copa del Rey Champion, 2007, 2008, 2009
• ORC Non-Corinthians World Championship – 3rd place, 2007
• Two-time ORC Spanish Champion

Scott Nixon

• P: 410-268-1161 x205
• E: [email protected]

Scott Nixon has been involved with racing his whole life. An All-American sailor at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Scott later coached many students to the All-American ranks at the College of Charleston in South Carolina. He has a wide range of racing experiences, including dinghies, One Design keelboats, inshore big boats, and offshore distance racing. Scott joined Quantum Sails in 2000, and his experiences bring a unique skill-set to Quantum’s programs. Focusing primarily on One Design classes, he is directly involved in testing, design, and development of Quantum’s One Design sail programs, working directly with the design team to make sure Quantum® sails are at the front of the fleet. Scott has sailed with Quantum customers to win championships at the world, Gold Cup, European, North American, and national levels. His hands-on approach includes active campaigns and racing in the following classes for Quantum: J/22, J/24, J/70, J/80, J/109, J/111, C&C 30, Farr 30, Farr 40, NYYC 42, Swan 45, Melges 20, Melges 24, and Melges 32.

• Position: Global Offshore One Design Director
• Current Town: Annapolis

Maxim Logutenko

• P: +14014998651
• E: [email protected]

Maxim started working in the Quantum Russia office in 2010 after a lifetime of sailing experiences. He started sailing on Optimist boats when he was six years old and became a champion sailor. He is a two-time All-Japan Mini Hopper and Sea Hopper Junior Champion, two-time Quarter Ton class All-Russia Champion, and the 2008 Dragon European Champion. Maxim is also experienced on Cadet, 470, 49er and RC44 boats. When he's not sailing, Maxim also coaches, including the Russian Yngling class for the 2008 Olympics. When Maxim decided to transition into selling sails, he chose Quantum because of its state-of-the-art design and development, as well as Quantum's reputation for quality. He is excited to work with new and repeat clients to help everyone find the fastest, most competitive sails.

• Nationality:
• Position: Sail Consultant
• 2021 Rolex Middle Sea Race, ORC 4, 2nd
• 2003 Rolex Sydney Hobart, Sydney 38, 3rd
• Rolex Fastnet Race Skipper
• Several coastal regattas in Italy/France and Spain as a skipper
• 2007-2008 – Russian Olympic Sailing Team Coach, Yngling class, 4th place

Kris Werner

• P: 585-342-5200
• E: [email protected]

Kris Werner grew up in Queens, NY, and spent his childhood on the water, sailing and fishing. He is a graduate of New York Maritime College at Fort Schuyler, where he earned an unlimited tonnage/oceans USCG license and a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Transportation and Business. After four years of collegiate varsity and offshore sailing, Kris served as a collegiate sailing coach and waterfront director. His career took him all over the world as a ship's officer on ocean-going tankers. In 2004, Kris came to Rochester to earn his way to Chief Officer on the Rochester Fast Ferry. He then worked as a Broker with RCR Yachts and began collaborating with Steve Haarstick on sail designs for various boats, including J/70s, J/24s, and other offshore vessels. For three years, he worked at Haarstick Sailmakers before transitioning to becoming the owner of the loft which is now Quantum Sails Rochester. Kris has extensive experience in offshore and one-design racing campaigns, both as a helmsman and a crew member. In addition to being a familiar face on the racing circuit, Kris enjoys spending time cruising with his wife and three boys.

• Position: Great Lakes Regional Manager
• Current Town: Rochester
• 2023 - J/22 North American Championship, 2nd Place
• 2022 - J/22 World Championship, 2nd Place
• 2022 - J/70 North Americans, 3rd Place
• 2022 - J/70 Midwinters, 4th Place
• 2018 - Verve Cup/J-88 North American Championship- 1st Place
• 2018 - CanAm Challenge- J-88 Great Lakes Championship 1st Place
• 2018 - Charleston Race Week- J-88 1st Place
• 2018 - J/24 Midwinters 3rd Place
• 2017 - Charleston Race Week – J/88 1st Place
• 2017 - J/88 North American Championship 1st Place
• 2017 - J/22 Midwinters - 2nd Place
• 2017 - Quantum Key West- J/88-1st Place - Tactics/Mainsail
• 2016 - J/24 Great Lakes Championship- 1st - Helm
• 2016 - CanAm Regatta- J-88 Class- 1st Place - Tactician/Mainsail
• 2016 - J/22 World Championship- 4th place - Tactics/Bow
• 2014 & 2015- J-70 Winter Series- 5th Overall- 45boats-helm
• 2013 - Charleston Race Week One Design Overall Champion- J/24-helm
• 2012 - Newport-Bermuda - 2nd Place - Swan 42-helmsman
• 2012 - Argo Gold Cup Match Race World Tour event- Bow
• 2011 - IRC North American Champion-helm
• 2009 - Lake Ontario / LYRA Boat of the Year- Beneteau 40.7-helm/tactics
• 2009 - Lake Ontario 300 - 1st Place-skipper
• 2006-8 - Meter North American Champion-tactics/mainsail
• 2005 - J/24 Great Lakes Champion-helm
• 1998 - 2001 Coached NY Maritime College Sailing team to National Ranking
• 1998 - Empire State Games- Gold Medal- Laser

Carter White

• P: 207-747-4389
• E: [email protected]

Carter White began sailing before he could walk, going on trips in the family's Lightning and then their J/24. He has experienced the beauty of the Gulf of Maine in a variety of cruising and racing boats. Having sailed and raced on multiple continents and at hundreds of locations, Carter considers the Maine coast of one the best places in the world to sail. An accomplished junior sailor, Carter competed on the national level in multiple National Championships including the U.S. Sailing Bemis and Sears competitions. He then took a chance on an upstart college program at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, where he majored in Economics and joined an aggressive, young, and new sailing team. He helped build the program into a national contender almost immediately; by his senior year, the program was ranked number one in the country. Carter was named All American for outstanding performance in inter-collegiate sailing competition. After college, Carter worked for a local sailmaker in Maine where he learned to design, build, and repair sails; install marine rigging; and manage a small business. He enjoyed helping the company grow into the leading local source for sails, canvas, and rigging. During this time, Carter sailed with many customers, helping them win major championships such as the PHRF New England Championships and Key West Race Week. Carter ultimately started his own business, managing sailing regattas and providing custom apparel and marketing products to marine businesses and events. Originally started in 2007 as Regatta Promotions, Carter set out to help yacht clubs and sailing organizations run better regattas. The business is still going strong today. Having successfully accomplished his mission, Carter and his wife, Molly, are now offering their years of product knowledge and expertise through You Regatta. You Regatta is located in the same facility as Quantum Sails Downeast in Falmouth, Maine. One-design sailing is where Carter has showcased his sailing talents, winning three U.S. National Championships in three different one-designs. He won the prestigious U.S. Sailing Mallory Cup in 2017, skippering a J/70 at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club as a representative of the Portland Yacht Club and SailMaine. He has skippered his J/24 You Regatta to many top finishes including fifth at the 2017 J/24 Worlds and second at the 2019 J/24 Midwinter Championships. Carter has won events sailing a variety of boats, including Swan 42, J/24, Lightning, Hinckley 51 SW, Custom 27’, Frers 36 & 41, Farr 30, Beneteau 36.7, J/80, J/70, 420, J/105, Etchells, Laser, Vanguard 15, and S2 9.1 While Carter has been working with Quantum, he has enjoyed the opportunities and rewards to reconnect with past clients in new ways that continue his true passion of helping sailors get more out of their boats, whether on the race course, gunkholing down the coast, or making a long ocean passage.

• Position: Portland Loft manager/Sail Consultant
• Home town: Cumberland, Maine
• Current Town: Portland, Maine
• 4-time Maine High School State Champion (1990-1994)
• All American for Hobart & William Smith Colleges (1998)
• Key West Race Week (2001), 1st place, Tactician and Starting Helmsman
• Swan 42 U.S. Nationals (2011), 1st place, Mainsail Trimmer
• Block Island Race Week (2011), 1st place, Swan 42 Division, Mainsail Trimmer
• Swan 42 U.S. Nationals (2012), 1st place, Mainsail Trimmer
• Charleston Race Week (2014), 3rd place, 80 boat J/70 class, Tactician
• J/24 U.S. National Championship (2016), 2nd place, Skipper
• U.S. Sailing Adult Championships Mallory Cup (2017), 1st place, J/70, Helmsman
• J/24 World Championships (2017), 4th place tie, Helmsman

• J/80 USA Home Page
• ISAF Website Home Page
• J/80 International World News
• Headstay Measurement
• Tuning Guide
• Rig Tension Chart

Series: Gearing Up for a Major Regatta

Managing a Racing Program: Sail and Boat Maintenance

What Each Crew Position Wants You to Know

Lessons from Charleston Race Week to Improve Your Whole Season

This website uses cookies and collects usage statistics. Privacy Policy

Us, too. We pour that passion into each of our newsletters to help you enjoy sailing even more.

• New Sailboats
• Sailboats 21-30ft
• Sailboats 31-35ft
• Sailboats 36-40ft
• Sailboats Over 40ft
• Sailboats Under 21feet
• used_sailboats
• Apps and Computer Programs
• Communications
• Fishfinders
• Handheld Electronics
• Plotters MFDS Rradar
• Wind, Speed & Depth Instruments
• Anchoring Mooring
• Running Rigging
• Sails Canvas
• Standing Rigging
• Diesel Engines
• Off Grid Energy
• Cleaning Waxing
• DIY Projects
• Repair, Tools & Materials
• Spare Parts
• Tools & Gadgets
• Cabin Comfort
• Ventilation
• Footwear Apparel
• Foul Weather Gear
• Mailport & PS Advisor
• Inside Practical Sailor Blog
• Activate My Web Access
• Reset Password
• Customer Service

• Free Newsletter

Pearson 37 and 37-2 Used Boat Review

DIY Survey Checklist for Used-Boat Buying

Valiant 40: Reshaping the Cruising Hull

Bristol Channel Cutter 28: Circumnavigator’s Choice

Best Crimpers and Strippers for Fixing Marine Electrical Connectors

Thinking Through a Solar Power Installation

How Does the Gulf Stream Influence our Weather?

Can You Run a Marine Air-Conditioner on Battery Power?

Practical Sailor Classic: The Load on Your Rode

Anchor Rodes for Smaller Sailboats

Ground Tackle Inspection Tips

Shoe Goo II Excels for Quick Sail Repairs

Dinghy Outboard Diagnostics

Spring Season Engine Start-Up for Winterized Engines

Solutions for a Stinky Holding Tank

Diesel Performance Additives

Vinyl Boat Lettering DIY Application and Repair

Those Extras you Don’t Need But Love to Have

Hidden Maintenance Problems: Part 3 – Gremlins in the Electrics

Three-Model BBQ Test

Alcohol Stoves— Swan Song or Rebirth?

Living Aboard with an Alcohol Stove

Preparing Yourself for Solo Sailing

How to Select Crew for a Passage or Delivery

Preparing A Boat to Sail Solo

Re-sealing the Seams on Waterproof Fabrics

Chafe Protection for Dock Lines

Waxing and Polishing Your Boat

Reducing Engine Room Noise

Tricks and Tips to Forming Do-it-yourself Rigging Terminals

Marine Toilet Maintenance Tips

• Sailboat Reviews

Looking for a fast sprit boat? The J/80 cant keep up with a Melges 24, but we think for racing and family fun, its a more well rounded boat. And its less expensive.

We imagine Rod and Bob Johnstone of J/ Boats faced a dilemma back in 1991 when they prepared to introduce a new line of boats. Among the several boats they were building at that time was the J/35, one of the most popular and successful boats on the racing scene.

The J/105 would be the first production keel boat rigged with a retractable bowsprit, conceived to in- crease performance by offering cruisers a user-friendly method of flying asymmetrical spinnakers. It, too, would measure almost 35 feet. So to give it a separate identity, they chose a metric name, vogue in the 1990s (10.5 meters equals 34.49).

Five years after introduction of the J/105, the company has sold more than 400 sprit boats in sizes ranging from 26-50 feet, and several look-alikes have been introduced by competitors. New cruising boats are being offered with optional bowsprit arrangements; one line even has an articulating bowsprit. Theres no doubt: The concept has spawned a generation of so-called sport boats like the Ultimate 20 (October 15, 1995) and the Melges 24 (May 1, 1995), both sprightly, trailerable pocket rockets.

The history of J/Boats dates to 1976, when Rod John- stone designed the groundbreaking J/24, a fast, easy- to-sail racer that attracted sailors frustrated with the vagaries of MORC and PHRF handicapping systems. Rod formed the company with brother Bob, who came aboard to handle marketing. They hired Everett Pearson of Tillotson-Pearson, now TPI Composites, to construct the boats. In the ensuing 20 years, more than 5,200 J/24s were produced, and the fleet became the second largest one-design keel boat class in the world, behind the Star class. By the early 1990s, the company was a fixture in the boatbuilding business.

Following the successful launch of the J/105, the company unveiled the J/80, which is carving a niche in the marketplace with a broad customer base. Measuring 26 3, it is a versatile performer designed to have market appeal among those entering the performance arena for the first time, dinghy sailors stepping up to a keel boat, big boat racers seeking a simpler method of going around the buoys, and daysailors.

At a glance, the boats low profile and soft chine are aesthetically appealing. A spacious 12 cockpit offers plenty of room for a four-person race crew, and its decks are uncluttered by ankle-knocking hardware. More than 170 boats have been built since hull #1 was launched in April, 1993.

Construction

During his four decades of boatbuilding, Everett Pear- son has constructed more than 16,000 fiberglass hulls. The J/Boats are constructed at TPIs plant using the Seeman Composites Resin Infusion Molding Process (SCRIMP), a vacuum-assisted closed system designed to increase the integrity of hulls while reducing the amount of volatile organic compounds that enter the environment and workplace. The system has also been employed in the construction of 65 blades for wind machines, and in fabricating therapy pools (SwimEx) used by professional football teams.

The SCRIMP method was developed by Bill See- man, a Gulf Coast fiberglass expert, who worked with Baltek, a manufacturer of end-grain balsa used as core material in hulls and decks. During the 1980s, at the same time Seeman was exploring new methods of laminating composite panels, Baltek was experi- menting with various methods of developing a core product engineered for vacuum-bagging.

When Seeman was commissioned by the U.S. Navy in 1990 to fabricate balsa-cored panels for a special project, he selected Balteks AL600 as the core because it contained a newly developed precoated copolymer that acted as a tie coat, strengthening the interlaminary bonds while reducing the amount of resin required. Baltek engineers continued to tinker with chemical formulations, eventually introducing the current generation of pre-coated balsa, AL600/10, which reduced cost of the balsa by a third. It is a key component in the SCRIMP process.

Coincidentally, Pearson was on a parallel track, pursuing attempts to develop a similar system when he discovered Seemans. During a visit to Seemans plant in Mississippi he was so was so taken with the process that he immediately purchased manufacturing rights and began building SCRIMPed boats, including the line of J/Boats. That was 1993.

Alan Johnstone of J/Boats sees several additional advantages to the new system.

It produces laminates with glass/resin ratios that are within one percent of specifications, he says. It also reduces labor cost because of increased efficiency in the lay-up process, and we think it produces a better product because workers are not working in a hazardous, smelly environment.

The J/80 hulls are cored with 3/8 AL600 over which are laid layers of fiberglass chop and bi-directional and unidirectional mat. Three-ounce mat is used to reinforce the keel sump, and 6 wide strips of 3/4-ounce mat are used to reinforce deck flanges. The use of vinylester resin has inspired the company to offer a 10-year blister warranty.

Bulkheads are located amidships, and in the bow and stern. Like deck flanges, they are tabbed to the hull with additional 6-wide overlays of cloth. The hull-deck joint is bonded with Plexus, a high strength adhesive Johnstone says is stronger than the laminate itself. The company says it has no reported hull-deck leaks since it began using Plexus. (We do know of one Lagoon catamaran that sprung a hull-deck leak, not because the adhesive failed, but because a worker had failed to fill the entire seam.)

The keel, which is cast from ceramic molds, is attached to a 12-deep stub using seven, 3/4 J-shaped stainless steel bolts. The 1,400-pound lead keel is coated with four coats of epoxy primer.

As on most J/Boats, the mast step is an aluminum I beam tabbed to the hull on both sides of its base. Transverse aluminum webs welded to each end are through-bolted at the aft end into the main bulkhead and forward to another bulkhead. The mast is attached with four bolts attached to a plate that allows fore and aft adjustment at the base.

The retractable bowsprit is located to starboard. When owners of early models experienced leaks into the forepeak, a rubber seal gasket was mounted on the front of the housing.

The fiberglass rudder is molded in two halves that are cored with balsa before being married and wrapped with fiberglass at leading and trailing edges.

The company delivered 49 boats within months of its introduction and, like newborns, experienced teething problems: Some of the original stanchion bases failed where spinnaker blocks were attached, so the factory welding method was improved. Some mast cranes with lightening holes failed. Stainless steel gudgeons on the rudder were initially under-engineered so have been increased in size from 1/8 to 3/16 material, as has the stainless tiller strap. Owners of early models were provided with retrofits.

We inspected hull #42, which has been raced extensively for two seasons but still appears factory fresh. Gelcoat surfaces are unblemished. There were no signs of crazing or stress cracks, and areas where the crew operates were clean. Though the owner has raced in 25- to 35-knot winds in San Francisco and Seattle, his only failure was at a stanchion base.

We have always thought that TPI does as good a job as anyone building with balsa. At the same time, it should be remembered that the current generation of lightweight performance boats, despite their stiff- ness, tend to be more fragile than older, more heavily laid-up cruisers.

Deck Layout

Because sprit boats fly asymmetrical spinnakers and are equipped with roller-furling headsails, the amount of clutter on deck and in the cockpit is greatly reduced. Replacing the spinnaker pole eliminates a need for deck chocks, foreguy and topping lift, afterguy, sheet stoppers and, perhaps, one winch.

Generally, four lines are led aft on the J/80: jib sheets and spinnaker sheets, which are led to Harken 32-2A winches in the cockpit. Two identical winches located on the coachroof are factory options, but may be redundant. One owner told us he uses them only when setting the spinnaker or doing a jibe set, and is considering removing them.

Main and jib halyards are cleated at the mast. The spinnaker halyard is led to a cam cleat on the coachroof, the spinnaker tack line to a cam cleat on the side of the cabin, as is the roller-furler line, and the pole launch line is inside the bulkhead with only the tail exposed. An outhaul and reef line located in the boom exit near a clam cleat on the underside of the boom, within reach of a crewperson. Cunningham and vang controls are also at the base of the mast, within reach of the cockpit or rail.

Mainsheet trim and backstay adjustment is easily accomplished by the helmsman from a position aft of the traveler. The mainsheet system includes a 2:1 Harken traveler system led to cam cleats in the coam- ing, and five-part Harken mainsheet system led to a swivel base cleat. The 4:1 split backstay tackle is led forward to a position at the helmsmans fingertips.

When sailing downwind in moderate breezes, trimmers are typically located opposite the primary winches, two body widths forward of the helmsman. To keep the boat level when going to weather in more than 15 knots of wind, the jib sheet is led to the weather winch.

As one experienced crewperson told us, This boat is so easy to sail that if you have an experienced helmsman, you can pick up three novices and go racing.

Hall Spars supplies the fractionally rigged, double spreader rig, which measures 31 above the deck. The mast is supported by a rod headstay and stainless steel 1×19 shrouds and backstay.

Space belowdecks is well organized and nicely finished, but there isn’t much of it. This is because of the boats narrow, 8 3 beam and long cockpit. Daylight enters the area through two Lexan ports, but the space will be dark at night unless one purchases the optional Halogen reading lights.

The main cabin has 4 of headroom, and is accented by a teak and holly sole. Single berths located amidships are more than 6 long, but only 19 wide. Big persons wont find them very comfortable. Tiny storage compartments are located beneath each settee.

The forepeak is more spacious, 5 6 wide at the main bulkhead, and almost 7 long. Theres storage in the forepeak for little more than the battery and some small items, because the hollow area below the berth is enclosed to provide flotation. A small anchor locker is located in the bow.

Space aft of the companionway below the cockpit is open for storage, and is accessible by removing the companionway steps, which are mounted on a stainless steel frame attached to the hull with quick release pins. The space is adequate for storage of a cooler, portable toilet, outboard, and fuel tank. Wed recommend installation of a sliding tray or bracket to simplify the process and make access easier.

A bulkhead 6 from the stern encloses the aft section of the boat, adding additional flotation. Though the area can be inspected through removable plastic plates located belowdecks and in the cockpit, repairs to the area will present a challenge.

Exposed wiring from running lights is secured by cable ties screwed to tabbing in the hull. They detract from the boats appearance and could pose a hazard if pulled loose.?Though there is room for storage of equipment necessary for weekending, the challenge will be in the organization of gear and supplies.

Auxiliary power is furnished most often by a 3-hp. outboard motor on a transom bracket. There is no special locker for the portable fuel tank, so it sits in the cockpit. To minimize weight, capacity usually is limited to about 2 gallons.

Performance

We sailed Steve Painters Climax in moderate winds and flat water on Puget Sound and found her to be responsive from the moment we left the dock. In close quarters amidst a fleet of returning boats, we unfurled the jib and, once clear of traffic, the main was hoisted. The boats response was to lower its right shoulder and shoot forward into the wind.

We estimated wind speed at 10-12 knots (the design class does not allow wind instruments), a range Painter said is trickiest when sailing in competitive situations.

She likes it when the wind is under ten, because she performs well in light air, and when its over fifteen, because then she will plane when sailing downwind. In ten to fifteen knots we find it difficult to sail to her handicap, he told us.

A veteran sailor who has owned and campaigned a Star boat, Catalina 30, and most recently a C & C 44, Painter says hes having more fun with the J/80 than with any of the others.

When equipped with a non-overlapping jib, the boat rates 127 PHRF on the Sound, but regional handicaps differ by as much as 12-15 seconds. More than 170 boats have been produced and one-design fleets are organizing across the country, though most quickly on the East Coast.

When we took the helm we found that the designers claims of a neutral helm and positive tracking were not exaggerations. A Forespar tiller extension allows the helmsman to position himself comfortably with a single lifeline for back support and a 3 footrest built into the sole for lateral support.?Tacking is as simple as stepping across the boat, because the mainsheet is well forward of the tiller. Crew movement is rather straightforward as well. The boom is high enough that the risk of head-knocking has been reduced, and the coachroof far enough forward that its not necessary to crawl across it on a tack.

Having tested other sprit boats, weve become accustomed to launching the asymmetrical spinnaker, and have an increased appreciation for them as they allow cruisers and racers to sail fast without dealing with the potential for disaster that always exists with a conventional spinnaker setup.

The spinnaker, which is always tacked to the bow-sprit, is launched by pulling the pole forward and hoisting it from a J/24-style canvas basket in the companionway. With one person sweating the halyard and a second taking the sheet, it is aloft and pulling within 30 seconds.

Like any boat with an asymmetrical spinnaker, the J/80s best point of sail downwind is broad reaching. When the wind pipes up, the crew moves aft, the bow comes out of the water and shes planing. Compared to conventionally rigged boats, which sail fast with the pole on the headstay, sailing high jibe angles downwind is inefficient.

Because theres no spinnaker pole, theres no need for a foredecker. Jibing is simply a matter of pulling the clew across the boat in front of the headstay and trimming to the new course.

Spinnaker takedowns are simpler as well, especially when the sail is doused to weather. We unfurled the jib, jibed and eased the spinnaker halyard as the sail fell to the deck with assistance from one crewman controlling the clew.

J/80 vs. Melges 24

Initial reaction to the introduction of sprit boats was a combination of skepticism and curiosity. Judging from the success of J/Boats as well as new boats introduced by competitors, market acceptance is now a given in both racing and cruising fleets.

However, there are clear distinctions among boats on the market, which requires that a buyer clarify his needs before writing a check. Comparing the J/80 with the Melges 24 may provide a frame of reference because of their similarities and differences. The Melges is clearly a faster boat, rating in the 90s, despite being nearly 2 shorter.

Both have cavernous cockpits designed and rigged to maximize performance. Though waterline length, draft, and beam measurements are close, there are major differences. The Melges has a retractable keel and performs like an overgrown dinghy; the J/80 has a fixed keel. It is less buoyant and more comfortable going to weather in a chop.

The Melges is a lightweight at just 1,700 lbs., com- pared to the J/80s 2,900 lbs. The Melges carbon fiber rig and spreaders, which weigh only 62 lbs., plus the difference in overall displacement, translates into speed, especially downwind, when it breaks free of the surface and begins planing in 10 knots of wind. The J/80 simply needs more wind to overcome its displacement and the 185-pound rig. However, in 15 knots of wind, J/80 speeds reach into the teens, and weve seen them crack the 20-knot barrier on gusty San Francisco days. At those speeds, sailing is thrilling and challenging, regardless of the boat.

An equally important consideration is the proficiency of the crew. We agree with those who contend that the Melges requires a talented crew to be sailed to the victory circle. The 40- to 50-boat fleets that successfully contend at Key West Race Week are littered with professional sailors. By comparison, the J/80 provides veteran sailors, like Painter, an opportunity to compete at a high level without recruiting so-called rock stars.

Both boats are trailerable, though we would not want to set up the J/80 every weekend. Stepping the mast requires a gin pole, at the least, and hands and muscles, or, preferably, a hoist. By comparison, the Melges can be launched from a trailer and easily rigged in 30 minutes. The fixed keel on the J/80 also means a higher profile when traveling, though Johnstone told us that J/80 sailors trailer their boats from coast to coast to attend regattas.

The J/80 is slightly less expensive. At $33,200, it is priced $2,250 less than the Melges. Sails will add $4,500 to the cost, approximately $500 less than the Melges.

In our view, the issue is not one of performance be- cause both boats are quick, and perform well in light and heavy winds. Both have excellent designs, are well constructed, and have strong factory support programs.

The Melges is faster and may have more sex appeal. When measuring overall utility-including family sailing-the J/80 gets the nod. We wouldnt be afraid to take the boat into the ocean, but wed think twice about a coastal passage in the Melges.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Hello, I am upgrading from a J30 to a J80 and very new to this set up on the J80. I was wondering if I could have the email to Darrell Nichollson just to ask some questions as I come across them? My first question is there are no docking cleats for dock lines or for fastening an anchor. I notice the present owner uses docklines with a hook tied to the end and the hook connected to the plate mounted on the fordeck and to the stern stantions. Is that correct set up when leaving the boat in the water at a dock? Also, the anchor is stored inside the cabin in the forepeak? To get the anchor for use, one must go below to the bow and grab in with the anchor line? Thanks, Jon

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Log in to leave a comment

Latest Videos

Hanse 410: What You Should Know | Boat Tour

Sailboat vs Fishing Boat – Rules of the Road

Catalina 445: What You Should Know | Boat Review

How to Wax and Polish Your Boat

• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• Online Account Activation
• Privacy Manager

Sailboat Running Rigging

You don't want to have faulty sailboat running rigging. Strong, durable lines are essential for controlling the sails on your boat without risking your own safety, or that of the sails. Our sailboat ropes and lines were designed to withstand any weather condition without fraying, tearing, or catching. When you are ready to trim and hoist your sails, you can rest assured that the sailboat rigging equipment that you purchase from us will provide the smoothest and fastest transitions. From tack to jibe, our sailboat halyards and mainsheets make it easy, durable and always the right choice.

Order our sailboat running rigging lines today for fast, free shipping on qualifying orders, and rig up your boat with the most trusted sailboat riggings around!

Lines by type of sailing

• Club/Racing
• Dinghy/One Design
• Kite & Surf

Lines by Application*

• Jib/Genoa Sheets
• Spinnaker Sheets
• * Sailboat lines selector by application.

Lines by Material

• Polyester Double Braid
• Dyneema Single Braid
• Dyneema Double Braid
• Vectran Core Double Braid
• Dyneema Core Double Braid

Lines by Brand

• Alpha Ropes
• FSE Robline
• G&B Ropes
• New England
• Yale Cordage

Our sailboat rigging include mainsail halyards, spinnaker halyards, and Genoa halyards that are made from a double braid polyester line, double braid Dyneema line or Vectran. Our mainsheets are also made from durable double braid polyester and hybrid fibers with blend of Dyneema and Technora. This material has the best reputation in the industry.

* Visit our quick sailboat lines selector by application.

Translation missing: en.general.language.dropdown_label

Translation missing: en.general.currency.dropdown_label.

• Create account

J80 Accessories

Let customers speak for us

Calidad y diseño

Muy recomendable

All Purpose Boots [Easy-Fit] + ThermaFlex™ Socks (Value Bundle)

Sencillamente perfecto, tanto el servicio como el producto.

Shop July 4th Savings on Rigging, Parts, and Gear!

• Call Us +1-503-285-5536
• Sign in & Register
• Recently Viewed

J/80 Sailboat Photo Gallery

J/80 usa 738 sailboat photo gallery.

Click here to view full gallery

J/80 USA 888 Sailboat Photo Gallery

J/80 USA 255 Sailboat Photo Gallery

J/80 USA 146 Sailboat Photo Gallery

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Sign up for our newsletter to receive exclusive discounts, new product announcements, and upcoming sales.