SJ23 Tech Tip C13, (Updated 2000-11-12) Bob Schimmel, Stan Franklin

Index

Cockpit Dodger.
I consider a dodger to be an extension of the cabin by virtue of the fact that it creates shelter over the companionway and the cabin below it.  In essence it creates a "covered porch" for the cabin.  A dodger can scoop a lot of wind in a following breeze and there will be times when you use the frame for a handhold as you walk to the foredeck.  For both of these reasons, the frame must be built very robust.  You should also be able to fold the frame down on the deck to protect it from really strong winds or to minimize wind resistance when sailing upwind.  I really like a dodger that has windows all around so it doesn't obstruct vision.  A dodger with small windows can really block your view.  Finally there is the issue of beauty.  To satisfy this elusive trait a dodger has to be well proportioned to the hull, not look like something that is stuck on top of the cabin. 

SAIL BOAR - This well proportioned dodger belongs to "Sail Boar."  The stainless steel frame (~3/4" OD tubing) was assembled in 1990 and still works like new.  I once stumbled against it when boarding and was surprised at how sturdy it was.  The entire assembly can be removed for racing or can collapse forward to lie flat on the deck.  North Sails of Vancouver replaced the fabric in 1996 using Acrilan cloth and added snap buttons to create removable side windows.  The forward window can be rolled up for ventilation or less wind resistance while keeping the top up for shade.  However, this frame is not self supporting so a 5/16" line must be tied to the forward deck to counterbalance the two lines pulling aft.  Another technique would be to remove the front window with a zipper leaving the border fabric to maintain tension when the vinyl window is open.  If the bottom of the dodger is extended about 6" further forward, it will create some extra storage space on the deck. You cannot extend the top further aft due to the location of the mainsheet.  You be the judge and proportion it for your climate. 

     

Owner comments, "the biggest disadvantage of this dodger is that the spiders love to build their webs when the side windows are in place."  For this reason, the side windows are left off when the boat is moored.  Stan.
 

OPUS - Since this Tech Tip was posted several other people have built a dodger similar this one on Opus.  Notice that the bottom of the dodger straddles the sliding hatch, making a snug fit.  This creates some temporary storage for charts-n-things on top of the sliding hatch.  Very convenient for the navigator when cruising.  This style of dodger works if you can still access the winches and line lockers on the cabin roof.  So keep this in mind.


 

EMAINDA LEE - Here is another variation of a dodger that straddles the sliding hatch.  This dodger is built lower to fit under the boom mounted at the factory height.

  
 

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