The J/109 Class Association Forum

Class Rules Discussions :: Salt Batteries CATL Naxtra Drop-In – Some Thoughts Before You Buy :: Reply by Dan Corcoran

no_email@example.com (Dan Corcoran) — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 17:18:31 -0400

Never mind, new information, early 2026 will not have 12 volt product. First out is 24 volt batteries for heavy equipment.

Class Rules Discussions :: Seeking 20 names to support future vote on lithium batteries. Add your name :: Reply by morganscloud

no_email@example.com (morganscloud) — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 11:32:14 -0500

I would like to add my name to those who would like to see making Lithium batteries class legal. I primarily cruise (Nova Scotia) and any racing I might do will be PHRF, but I would rather not make my boat non compliant for class racing.

I have also done all the wiring upgrades to make Lithium safe and ABYC compliant. I have also added a new alternator with serpentine belt, and a WakeSpeed WS 500 which is lithium-smart, and changed the shore charger to a lithium smart one (Victron). Also a Victron monitor in place of the standard. So I'm basically ready to go lithium, with few changes for less that US$3000 and that yielding about three times the usable Ah of a three battery (one engine start) lead system.

So is there any movement on this?

By the way, my two battery (three with AGM start) lithium solution with BMS etc, will weigh a little more than a two battery standard installation, so there not even any need for of corrector weights.

My thinking is that now Lithium is mature and ABYC are on their second version of E13 all the class needs to do is say in the rule that all installations must be ABYC compliant, which gets rid of any liability worries for the class. By the way this will require some wiring changes, anyway, but having done these, it's not horrible. In fact, at least arguably, a standard J/109 factory install is not compliant, so should be fixed.

Maintenance Topics :: Intermittent Engine Water Issue :: Reply by PourDecisions

no_email@example.com (PourDecisions) — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:18:16 -0400

No it wasn't related to battery state. The alternator is on a serpentine. It could be ( have been ? ) ambient temperature and maybe there is a glazed spot on the belt. I haven't changed it yet, just made it tighter and it hasn't happened since.

Maintenance Topics :: LiFePO4 battery storage, good article :: Author Dan Corcoran

no_email@example.com (Dan Corcoran) — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:08:43 -0400

Continuing on my reminder that drop-in batteries are not drop in, here is a good article about storage.

"LiFePO4 batteries have a special wrinkle, here is a good article explaining. As written by another commentor "This was an excellent, timely, well thought out article and, as the leaves north of the Artic Circle (considered by Floridians to be the FL/GA border) are starting to turn (+/-), boats with LFP batteries are going to be laid up soon. Your recommendations are spot on. LFP batteries with internal BMS’s and no method for measuring and displaying individual cell voltages are especially susceptible." ... a Panbo commenter

https://panbo.com/dont-murder-your-batt ... ent-591813

Maintenance Topics :: Basic AGM battery replacement :: Reply by Dan Corcoran

no_email@example.com (Dan Corcoran) — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 22:04:57 -0400

Lastly, you also want an alternator protection device wired into the engine compartment as well, especially if your battery has a battery management system (BMS) that can cut off the battery suddenly.

Here is more info:
Sterling Power Pro Protect 24v Alternator Protection Device Overview:

The Pro Protect is a highly effective alternator protection device which prevents high voltage back EMF spike events that can destroy your alternator's expensive regulator and internal diode pack. These events can be caused by:

Loose wiring
Failure in a split diode/relay charging system
Switching off engine electrical power while engine is running
Defective rotary battery selector switches
Failure of a fuse in alternator's circuit
Any of the above events, and many more, could easily destroy the sensitive components of an alternator; this device will prevent damage from these events by diverting any high spike to ground, and is effective for full-power to no-power fault events. The Pro Protect is designed to absorb/divert spikes in excess of 36v in 24v nominal systems.

Please note that this device is sacrificial by design: a severe voltage spike may destroy the device; the point is that the spike destroyed the device rather than your alternator.

Maintenance Topics :: Traveler set up :: Reply by Vento Solare

no_email@example.com (Vento Solare) — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 20:04:42 -0500

That was a mod somebody made. Just remove it.

Maintenance Topics :: Yanmar Saildrive seacock :: Reply by TSweather

no_email@example.com (TSweather) — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:36:03 -0500

Well, I got the fitting out of the Saildrive and it is definitely a tapered thread. It's difficult to confirm the exact standard used in the threads, but consensus seems to be BSPT. I may take it to a friend who owns a machine shop to verify that it's not NPT.

Below are digital caliper measurements

~ Outermost threads where it goes into the Saildrive .804" / 20.44mm
~ Innermost threads near valve body .828" / 21.04mm
~ length of threaded area 12.5mm (part was installed with 10.5mm buried in the Saildrive)

~ id of fittings is 1/2"
~ od of water outlet barb to the strainer is .712" / 18.10mm

Since the fitting extends straight out of the Saildrive housing (unlike the new SD 60 style, which is angled up) it has a height limit of around 45.5 to 50 mm to clear the upper Saildrive gland seal while screwing the valve in. This mostly rules out the Hansen Products and Trudesign valves as they are much thicker than their metallic counterparts. That Forespar one you posted looks like it has a width of 43.9mm, which should fit, though Forespar only offers NPT and BSP thread choices.

As for materials, the internet is awash in differing opinions. While Marelon is likely ideal from a corrosion standpoint, it seems that if some metal is used, that a good sealant can at least partially isolate the connection of dissimilar metals using Sika 291, 3m 4200, or equivalent. I'm sure there are some schools of thought that a metal fitting is more fire resistant since it's in the engine compartment, though I guess in the event of a fire the thru hull technically isn't your biggest concern.

Sails & Tuning :: Repeating Vang Settings :: Reply by Vento Solare

no_email@example.com (Vento Solare) — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 09:52:52 -0400

This is an old picture that shows the mast end for double ending. The lead aft goes through the deck organizer and uses the port inboard Spinlock clutch. You can follow the Harken Vang Manual diagram for disassembly and reassembly.

double-ended-vang.jpg

Improved with turning block at center

turning-block-vang-base (1).jpg

Attachments

double-ended-vang.jpg (928.25 KiB)

turning-block-vang-base (1).jpg (1588.64 KiB)

Sails & Tuning :: Trying to measure mast rake - no black band :: Reply by Vento Solare

no_email@example.com (Vento Solare) — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:29:42 -0400

Yes - that is the correct datum point.

Sails & Tuning :: Bolt rope luff :: Author marcdesouter

no_email@example.com (marcdesouter) — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 12:51:24 -0400

I'm considering ordering a new class main sail with a bolt rope luff (currently using slugs). Couple of questions.

Searching around different forums, the pros/cons are mostly performance vs ease-of-use. Is the performance gain on a J/109 worth the extra effort(s) for hoisting/flaking/wear-and-tear? I'm racing the boat almost exclusively. I understand any potential gain is in a few percent efficiency, but seeking others opinions here.

And, are there any discussions in j109.org (I've searched around with no hits yet) that describe the modifications needed to open the mast sail slot and relocating the gate? I see the class rules permit such a modification (section 4.4.5), and was hoping someone has posted some discussions and/or pictures. And do other people think that the sail slot modification is worthwhile when switching to a bolt rope main (compared to just using the existing slot and being super careful when hoisting)?

Any other thoughts/comments are appreciated! Thanks much.
Marc

Crew Position Wanted/Available :: 2025s NA in Chicago Very experienced Fill in Crew available :: Author peterspev

no_email@example.com (peterspev) — Sun, 03 Aug 2025 08:46:11 -0400

Broken finger? Sick child? Stuff Happens. I'm suddenly/unexpectedly available Verve Cup weekend. In Chicago. Reach out for sailing resume. Did the 2021 NAs.

Boats for Sale :: ISO J109 Southern California :: Author Trashfarmer

no_email@example.com (Trashfarmer) — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 03:16:18 -0400

Prefer one with transferable slip. Occasional racer , Occasional cruiser, possible teaching boat.
Possible 1999 or 2004 J80 club racer partial trade.

Vaughn Miller
720-212-9375

Boats for Sale :: For Sale: 2005 J109 Hull #254 "Reverie" - $139,000 :: Author johnarens

no_email@example.com (johnarens) — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 20:05:31 -0500

2005 J/109 “Reverie” - $139,000

Overview
Reverie is a super clean, professionally maintained J/109. Reverie benefits from a thoughtful series of performance and sail plan upgrades that have made her a proven winner in both handicap and one-design regattas. Equally adept in coastal races or around buoys, and sporting a fresh sail inventory, Reverie is truly turn-key and ready to sail. With plenty of cruising gear, she's also keen for weekend getaways. Lying in Tiburon, CA.

Select Race Record
One-Design
Winner, 2024 J/109 Pacific Coast Championship

ORC (2025 APH ToD/ToT: 541.3/1.1084)
Winner, 2023 Rolex Big Boat Series
Second, 2025 Rolex Big Boat Series

PHRF (Rating 69)
Winner, 2022 and 2023 YRA Bay Series
Winner, 2022 and 2023 YRA Coastal Series
Second, 2025 Spinnaker Cup, PHRF D

https://photos.app.goo.gl/XwSrn3KAdsYcMY4M9

Specifications
Builder: J/Boats (U.S. Built)
Designer: Rod Johnstone
Model: J/109
Year: 2005
LOA: 35’3” (10.74 m)
LWL: 30’6” (9.30 m)
Beam: 11’6” (3.51 m)
Draft: 7’0” (2.13 m) – Deep Keel
Displacement: 10,900 lbs. (4,944 kg)
Ballast: 3,800 lbs. (1,724 kg)
Hull Material: GRP / Fiberglass
Rig Type: Fractional sloop with carbon retractable bowsprit
Keel Type: Lead fin keel
Engine: Yanmar 3YM30 (29 HP)
Engine Hours: TBD
Propeller: Folding 2-blade

Recent Improvements & Upgrades
Rebuilt outhaul and reefing systems (2024)
Harken headfoil system for PHRF/ORC racing (2022)
Bobstay with adjustable tensioning system for enhanced luff tension (2023)
Jib inhauler system for optimized sail shape and upwind trim (2022)
Mechanical backstay adjuster for PHRF/ORC racing (2023)
Lifelines rebuilt (2023)
Stanchion reinforcements for improved safety and stiffness (2023)
Wheel powder coating and new leather wrap (2017)
Custom jack lines (2017)

Maintenance
Professionally maintained and serviced annually
Bottom professionally faired and spray painted (2025)
Mast and rod rigging inspection (2025)
Engine service (10/2025)
Interior/exterior detail (9/2025)
Freshwater bladder and filtration system replaced (2018)

Sail Inventory
Racing & Performance Sails
North 3Di ORC/PHRF J2 Full hoist jib (2025) – Mint
North 3Di ORC/PHRF J2 Full hoist jib (2022) – Very good
North 3Di ORC/PHRF J3 (2022) – Excellent
North 3Di One-Design Class Light/Med furling Jib (2024) – Excellent
North 3Di Class Main (2023) – Very good
North AirX 650 A1.5, 120 sqm (2025) – Oversized, “VMG” spinnaker – mint
North AirX 650 A2, 120 sqm (2024) – Oversized, runner spinnaker – Excellent
North AirX 650 A2, 120 sqm (2023) - Oversized, runner spinnaker – Very good
North AirX 650 A2,108 sqm (2022) – Class runner spinnaker – Very good
North A0 with Harken furler (2015) – Very good

Cruising & Backup Sails
North 3Di Endurance Class Main (2017)
North 3Di Endurance furling jib (2017)
North 3DL PHRF Main (2007)
North 3DL PHRF 155% Jib (2007)
North Full Batten Radial Dacron Main (2006)
North Roller Furling Dacron Jib (2006)
North Spinnaker Snuffer system

Running Rigging and Deck Gear
All running rigging replaced or upgraded within past three years
Adjustable traveler, vang, and backstay
Harken winches and deck hardware
Raymarine instrumentation and autopilot systems at helm

Electrical and Electronics
Shore Power: 30-amp 120V with Pro Marine galvanic isolator and 50’ Marinco EEL cord (2017)
Batteries: (2) Lifeline AGM 105Ah house + (1) Lifeline AGM start (2017)
Inverter/Charger: Xantrex HF (2017)
Charge System: Blue Seas ACR with Balmar alternator and regulator
Navigation: Raymarine ST60 (wind, speed, depth, MFD), Raymarine C80 chart plotter
Autopilot: Raymarine ST6002 linear drive (2017)
AIS: Digital Yachts with WiFi router send and receive (integrated with iNavX and iOS)
VHF: Standard Horizon GX1700 (fixed, GPS/DCS, 2018)
Handheld VHF: Standard Horizon HX870 (GPS/DCS, 2024)
Stereo: Clarion AM/FM Bluetooth with interior and exterior speakers (2021)

Interior and Accommodations
Sleeps six: forward V-berth, aft double cabin, convertible salon settees
Cherry joinery and white laminate trim
Enclosed head with shower and holding tank
L-shaped galley with propane stove/oven, sink, and icebox
Nav station with chart table and electronics panel
Pressurized hot/cold water and stern shower

Canvas and Covers
Dodger and dodger cover (2017)
Mainsail cover, wheel cover, and mast boot cover (2017, serviced 2025)
Winch covers (x4), lifeline covers (x6), jib sock (2017)
Cockpit cushions and line bags with integrated drink holders (2017)

Ground Tackle and Docking
22 lb. galvanized Delta anchor with 12’ chain and 250’ rode
Racing fortress anchor with compliant chain and rode
Taylor Made fenders (x2)
Double-braid dock lines (x6)

Contact
John Arens, owner
415-786-5660
Jarens07@gmail.com

Boats for Sale :: Looking to buy Great Lakes J109 :: Author tcwippy65

no_email@example.com (tcwippy65) — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 23:34:37 -0500

Am keen on buying a freshwater J109 on the Great Lakes to replace my Bene 36.7. Keep me mind if you are considering selling - avoid brokerage fees! Have sailed a bunch on 109s, on the east coast and Key West. Lake Michigan preferred.

Sails & Equipment for Sale :: SOLD - 2021 Evolution A2 (120 sq meter) :: Author JohnGreifzu

no_email@example.com (JohnGreifzu) — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 20:54:26 -0400

2021 Evolution (NZ) A2 Spinnaker
120 square meters (for handicap racing or Great Lakes use)
White AirX
Turtle bag
Used but still has a lot of life left. Great for weeknight racing.

$1,250 OBO

Sail is in CT
Email: johngreifzu@gmail.com

Evo A2.jpg

Attachments

Evo A2.jpg (69.17 KiB)

Sails & Equipment for Sale :: L/m jib :: Author jabrams

no_email@example.com (jabrams) — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 21:12:47 -0400

Looking for a good light medium class jib to get us through the season until new one can be built.

Looking to Buy Something :: Wanted - J-109 Boat near Great Lakes Region (Cleveland, OH) :: Author Rush

no_email@example.com (Rush) — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 23:31:48 -0400

Looking for a deep keel J109 in the Great Lakes region to race (Cleveland, OH).

Contact Ethan - (216) 409-1435
Ethan.h.rush@gmail.com

Looking to Buy Something :: WANTED: J/109 in the NorthEast :: Author aherring

no_email@example.com (aherring) — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 11:07:43 -0400

I'm looking for a J/109 with a deep keel.

Located in Marblehead, MA so something between here and Annapolis would be great but open to all options. I keep checking the major boat-listing websites but hoping that someone here might know of something coming on the market this offseason.

I appreciate the insight and thanks for your help!

Contact:
Nathaniel Herring
781.913.2382
arthurnherring@gmail.com

Looking to Buy Something :: Anchor roller and a Doger frame :: Reply by 35601

no_email@example.com (35601) — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 06:55:20 -0400

I got mine from Thurston sails and canvas in Bristol RI. They had the pattern and made it for me without having to measure on boat.

Looking to Buy Something :: Wanted: Trailer and anchor Roller :: Reply by ryanF

no_email@example.com (ryanF) — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 17:26:36 -0400

Did you ever end up getting the trailer? I'm looking for one -- any advice on locating