Harken: Mercury Deck Layout

mercury

The 18-foot Mercury is a full-keel sloop found on the West Coast of the United States. Introduced at the 1939 World's Fair in San Francisco, this Ernest Nunes design was built of a new breakthrough material—waterproof plywood! Fiberglass hulls were introduced in 1962 and aluminum spars in 1970. Competition in this family-oriented class is top notch with Nationals often won by male/female or parent/child crews. Active Mercury fleets can be found all along the west coast as well as the inland lakes and rivers, with most fleets hosting "test drive regattas" for interested parties.

Harken part numbers link to Harken on-line store.

Mercury

Mainsheet System
The 2:1 mainsheet system uses a 57 mm Ratchamatic® on a swivel base. In light air, this load-sensing block rolls freely, automatically engaging as loads increase and releasing instantly during mark roundings and jibes.

Mainsail Traveler Controls
This above/below deck system keeps the cover boards clutter free, and allows crew to trim the sail while hiking.

jib leads
The lash-on Ti-Lite block, Ratchamatic® cheek, and wedged cam, reduce friction and increase holding power for effective trimming from the wire.

vang
The vang is constructed with a 3:1 cascade inside of a 5:1 purchase for a powerful 15:1 system. It is used to control the leach of the main while reaching and running, and pivots side-to-side so it's easy to cleat and uncleat.

Link:
Mercury Class: www.merc583.addr.com/