Is the main halyard sheave at the masthead a bushing or a ball bearing? Has anyone ever replaced the bushing with a ball bearing?
I own Hull #977 a 1999 model that originally had a sleeve bearing on the masthead sheaves. I had the boat yard replace the main and jib sheaves with ball bearing sheaves which cost about $25 each fron Garhauer. Much easier to raise the main and drop the genoa if I have to. I also replaced all my blocks and deck organizers with ball bearing units. This also helps with the main. I can hoist the main from the cockpit and get it within 1 foot of the top before I have to use the winch. If I was a 300 # gorilla I could probably hoist it all the way.
Phill Klein
Andiamo #977
Montrose Harbor - Chicago
Thanks for the replies, we'll work with Gaurhauer to get the right parts.
I have a 1986 c34 standard rig hull #220. No chute. I'm getting a new main, and am thinking of adding a Dutchman Flaking System. These are much easier to use if you have a halyard style topping lift.
Question is: I don't know if there are just two blocks at the top of the mast. Will there be an extra block for the new halyard? Any guesses?
-fb
Frank,
Think again about adding a Dutchman to your sail. The cost is excessive and they do not work as good as is demonstrated at the boat shows. I have used the Dutchman system since my boat was new in 1992 and have opted for Lazy Jacks for my new sail.
Jim Kane
Frank,
I don't have a Dutchman, but my neighbor had one on his Catalina 36. He didn't like it and on his new main he got the Doyle Stack-Pack instead. He say's he's much happier with that. FYI.
Ted
:) I have a Dutchman and it's my first experience with one. THe broker showed me how to use it and I love it.
He said to flake our the halyard and let it drop fast and free! It works! Save wear and tear on my first mate in heavy winds. :rolleyes: