I'm considering a restoration project on an early (2002) Winder Mk 1.
My question is this:
Has anyone had to resort to mast cut outs to deliver competitive mast rake?
Has the front bulkhead position changed?
What changed when the design was re-decked (1a) ?
I don't think there are any problems with bulkhead position on early Winder 1 hulls. Have several at my Club and they go well. The bulkhead is not a problem a sit is at least 3060+ from transom, I believe it is 3065mm. Later 1a is 3070mm afaik. Also the step position is pretty high relative to sheerline and back of gate is min measurement. You may still need to cut the back of a new mast if it is long (fore/aft) to get good balance. This also relies on the c/board position and leading edge (ie the CLR of boat).
There are boats of this manufacture that work well with both cut outs and no cut outs. Extreme rake will also giver a very low boom if the sail is anywhere near max leech length. Most of the tuning guides are in the ball park but remember they are guides and be prepared to fiddle a bit to optimise.
As for scooping on tacks IMHO it is a red herring, high freeboard is your best friend here... I expect to get flak for that thinking, but am prepared to take it.
The sidedecks on the 1A were modified to reduce water scooping on tacks.
At 6ft 2 and sailing inland- mega rake has never been top of my list😄