Length of Furler Line?

[Sailing Steve]

I've searched the board with no luck...  Can anyone tell me the length of furling line required for a single line drum?

I've just ordered the 900SL drum assy to convert my 915LD Hood furler and I want to order the line as well, so that they both arrive about the same time.  I've been told to order approximately twice the boat length, but I would like to "measure twice, cut once,"  on my order.  There is no use measuring my existing line as it is a continuous loop.

Thanks,
Steve

[Stu Jackson]

It's hard to tell because much depends on what sizes of headsails you intend to use.  Large Genoas will require a longer line because more of the line will get curled up on the drum.  The type of furler is important, too, because you need to know the diameter of the drum.  Given the fact that you're looking at only needing 3/8 inch line of StaySet, not anything fancier, going double the length of the boat wouldn't hurt on the length or your pocketbook.

[Bob K]

Steve,
What is the cost of the 900SL?   I'm thinking of doing the same conversion.

Bob

[David Urscheler]

I upgraded several years ago and went with 70' of line. With my 135 genny I still have over ten feet left. BTW, you'll love the upgrade!

[Sailing Steve]

Thanks guys for the info.  I couldn't find a local Hood dealer, so I went with the factory at $768.90 plus tax/shipping.  I suspect that a dealer might be cheaper...  They wanted $173 - $224 for a furling line.  I'm willing to purchase my own line and de-core the first 1/3 as they indicate, over a couple of rums.  Cheaper and more fun too. 

http://www.pompanette.com/pompweb.nsf/a0e2253b23a1a536852567ae003c83a9/4153f0f24e396e50852567bc0011cdb6?OpenDocument

I'm really looking forward to my genoa holding its reef instead of breaking free with an explosive force such that seems to happen more often than not with the 915LD.

[Jim Price]

Bob K, I upgraded to single line couple of years ago.  Used Pompanette as source.  Doubt you will find better pricing for unit.  They were doing some special pricing at one time for C34 group and it would not hurt to ask for discount.  I paid about $750 so pricing is still in range.  Had to send back to them the old continuous line unit as part of deal.  They apparently use those to refurbish parts for continuous line units still in the field. 

I did get the line from them at the time.  Should have done my own but had other issues to deal with at the time.  Length will depend on size of largest head sail you fly.  Takes more wraps to roll up 145 - 155 vs. 120.  Don't cut yourself short if you have multiple size sails.

Also, you should plan on about $175 for new blocks for the single line.  If you still have the old "double" stanchion blocks, they carry too much friction for the new set up.  You will definitely need a block at pulpit to direct the line off the drum.  I use stanchion blocks with bearings that drop down over the stanchions so I can route close to deck and keep away from feet.  Shaffer and Garhaure make those (Garhaure was not making them when I built my system).  I also use a Garhaure track block in the outside track for the aft turn to make it easy to manage from any angle.

[Ron Hill]

Steve : Try a 72feet of 3/8 inch line for a 150% genoa and you'll be good to go.   

[Sailing Steve]

The new furler installed without much effort at all, and 72' of line is perfect - about 5' extra.

[stoney]

Monday I ordered a 900SL and look forward to the upgrade.  Steve, what size is your 72 ft. line and what size of a headsail do you have.  I have a new 150 on the way and need to order the fruler line and obviously I want it to be long enough and not over fill the drum.
stoney

[Sailing Steve]

3/8" New England Ropes "STA-set" line.  I've not determined the size of the foresail, but if I were to guess, it is larger (150?) as it comes well aft of the mast.  Watch for a sale price, and you can always buy a few extra feet to be safe - 72' left me with lots of extra which I probably trim once I finalize how I'll tie it off/cleat it.  You will have to de-core the first 1/3ish of the furler line per Hood's directions - Persumably so as not to overfill the drum.

Ron was the one that suggested the 72' and he states that he has a 150 foresail - so it would seem a safe bet...

It is currently on sale at Westmarine:

http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10001&langId=-1&catalogId=10001&classNum=11452&subdeptNum=490&storeNum=800&productId=240999

Good luck.

[Ron Hill]

Guys : What you are looking for in a roller furling line should be:
1. 3/8" so it's easy to hold on to.
2. You don't really care about low stretch - you just want a Dacron type line.