Harken traveler factory-installed?

fulvio · September 30, 2012, 09:44:39 AM

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!

Ron Hill · September 30, 2012, 11:57:29 AM

I believe that all of the C34s had a Garhauer traveler when they left the Factory.

Roc · September 30, 2012, 06:33:20 PM

You might call Garhauer to see if their traveller cars will fit on the existing Harken track.

scotty · September 30, 2012, 06:42:12 PM

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.

Ron Hill · October 01, 2012, 02:05:50 PM

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.

Stu Jackson · October 01, 2012, 03:47:29 PM

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.

Ron Hill · October 02, 2012, 08:52:19 AM

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

Phil Spicer · October 02, 2012, 02:56:24 PM

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.