For those who want a diagram of what Wouter was talking about in regard the cascading downhaul system, I have tried (or attempted depending how successful I am) to attach a dodgy diagram of the system.
I moved to this system a year ago and won't use any other system. I had some 12:1 system before which came with the boat and could never get the required tension, but would end up with miles of rope all over the boat. The cascading system in the diagram is less purchase, 8:1, but the friction is heaps less which makes up for the loss of purchase. My previous crew found the new system heaps easier which says a lot since my last crew was a chick.
Could get an extra a inch and a half luff tension with the cascading system (same mainsail used), plus when you let it off it certainly goes off. Watch out at the top mark as it can catch unawares.
