There are many, many threads on this forum about the mainsheet traveler, but I have not found this question answered:
Have any new C34s come with a Harken traveler installed by Catalina?
My 1989 (#929) has one (see pictures), and it had two or three POs. I have not found any proof that one of the POs might have installed it. Furthermore, it has the same purchase as the Nicro-Fico, so as an "upgrade" it wouldn't offer any advantage.
Ultimately, I'd like to upgrade to the Garhauer traveler, and it would be nice if I didn't have to replace the track. Mine has three through-bolts on each side.
Thanks for any insight!
I believe that all of the C34s had a Garhauer traveler when they left the Factory.
You might call Garhauer to see if their traveller cars will fit on the existing Harken track.
Harken also has some really fine gear. There might be an upgrade that would fit on their track, and also fit your needs. A call to them might give you some ideas.
fulvio : If there isn't anything wrong with your Harken traveler system, I'd keep it and put those "Boat Bucks" toward a Garhauer ridged vang!!
A thought.
I agree with Ron, 'cept I'd spend the $$ on a 6:1 purchase for your traveler control lines. Guido may be able to do it, or Harken certainly can. If you have a dodger consider a sheave on the end cars and fairleads and can cleats on the aft end of the cabintop.
fulvio : The reason that I mention the rigid vang is that I found with a rigid vang I use the traveler alot less. Now I let out the mainsheet line rather than move the traveler. Try it with your 4:1 before you spring for a 6:1 new traveler.
A thought
We did the upgrade to the MT-UB2 the first year it came out. The wife really likes it, easy for her to move the main in a heavy blow. Too bad the price has gone up. You might try a good deal at one of the boat shows. I sold the old travler to a Cat-30 owner in our sail club. It offset the price a little.