I'm considering removing the wires that cross my tramp and remounting the jib sheets to eyestraps rivited to the metal tramp slot strips on the hulls. Any one see a problem with this idea?

Thanks,
Mike

Your jib will be too open for an efficient slot except when on a down wind reach. Many 5.2 owners run the jib sheet cables wires under the tramp with a short run that surfaces above the tramp before continuing the run under again.

Requires having 2 reinforced grommets added for each cable run. Most opt to have the cable surface about midway then go back under about 18" from the front beam.

I've just inherited a 5.2 and that wire system is how the jib controls are set up on the boat. But - both jib blocks are tied off so that they cannot move either forward or back. Is that normal? Should they be able to move, and if so will moving them actually improve the boats performance when racing? Anyone out there that has info on this I'd appreaciate your comments.

It is not the manufacture's setup. N5.2's Jib blocks are suppose to be able to move forward and aft. It controls the jib's leach and foot. Further back, tighter the foot and more open the leach. If ya gonna race then it will help. Adjusts the boat's power so that it can sail according to the prevailing sea, wind, and crew weight conditions (that's another thread).

I have a Nacra 5.5SL which has a wire going across tramp (hull to hull) that can also be adjusted forward and back. I replaced it with a tramp mounted line. Its convenient, but you will loose some adjustability which might be a problem if you're seriously racing. Just another option for you. See Nacramania.com upgrades section for more info.

I have the cutouts already in my tramp and could go under with the wire, but I am not a racer and would really like to clear the tramp. My biggest concern is strength at the hull location. Since other boats have an adjustable travler on the hull/tramp slot with multiple rivits, I was just wondering if 2 rivits with back-up washers holding a eyestrap would provide enough strength for mounting at that location. Whatcha think?

Mike