I've been looking for a more user-friendly trim system, for a while now. The problem inland is the gusts/lulls are very short-lived. I might be fine on on tack, then overpowered on the next tack, and fine again on the next tack. By the time I've sorted out the trim, conditions have changed again. So recently I've been using no trim system at all, and it's great 80% of the time.
I've dabbled with the idea of rear-line trim adjustment, but the solutions appear to be complex and somewhat underwhelming. Front-line trim systems appear simpler but have their own issues.
Then I came across this thread "Zeeko ultimate bar no clamcleat no depower straps?"
viewtopic.php?t=2374213
And especially the mods that faklord, Telekiter, tomatkins and others have made.
The Zeeko UDS trim system, which is apparently an implementation of the Z-drag system (thanks tomatkins), seems to work pretty well. Once set, the trim remains stable under load. Pulling one or the other line then allows you to adjust the trim. But you still have a fixed point on the line (either below or above the bar) where you need to make the adjustment.
If all you need to do is grab hold of the line somehow to be able to move it, why not put a releasable clamp directly on the bar? Then simply grip the rope and push or pull it to adjust the trim.
Without having to move your hands off the bar. With immediate and fine-grained effect.
From this my little trim toggle was born. A simple C-shaped wire loop that fits around the bar, with the rope threaded through it, and a small stopper ball to provide grip.
When released, it simply slides along with the bar over the rope. You can still sheet in/out and steer as per normal.
But grab it with your thumb and you can grip the rope between the toggle and bar.
Push out to depower (shorten trim line). Pull in to power up (lengthen trim line).
Or put the toggle on the other line, and now you can pull to depower, push to power up. Your choice.
Ideally I'd make the little toggle out of 4mm 316 s/s wire and put a nice red stopper ball on it, but I haven't gone shopping yet.
And I haven't tested this out under real conditions.. But I am excited about the possibilities!
As always, your feedback is much appreciated.
Short vid on how the trim toggle works.
Short vid on the setup.
And some pics, of course.