Replacing the Forestay & Furler Maintenance

[blueskiesup]

After inspecting my forestay and finding a broken wire, I decided to replace it. Since we got the Mac26X 4-years ago we hadn't removed the Genoa nor the CDI furler from the stay but I did that last weekend. If anyone has any ideas for maintaining the furler, such as lubracating the bearing, cleanup etc. I would appreciate any feedback as I have pretty good access to everything currently.

Additionally it seems that setting the length of new stay through use of the turnbuckle may be difficult to do with the furler on. Can this be done or do I need to set the length and then install the furler and Genoa?

I appreciate any tips that may save me some time doing this maintenance.

I'm also replacing a port window for a crack I created when trying to remove and re-seal it, cleaning and sealing the deck with the Vertglas products, installing a Garmin 545s. I will be busy this weekend to say the least! I hope to be in the water by Memorial day...


Greg

[2BonC]

For the same reason I have done this last year. As far as I remember there is nothing to be lubricated on the standard furler because the drum is running on a plastic center part, don´t know the exact name, unless Your system is upgraded to roller bearings. In this case forget my info.
Again as far as I remember I had to set the length prior to installation of furler and genoa.

Rainer

[Kelly Hanson East]

You can adjust the length of the forestay with the CDI furler installed. Be sure to inspect the cotter pins and make sure they are twisted to prevent the turnbuckle from unrolling while furling.

[blueskiesup]

The cotter pin issue is important to remember, the pins I'm replacing were quite small and flexible, I may safety wire to be sure...

[delevi]

When you adjust the forestay turnbuckle, clamp a vicegrip to the top turbuckle fitting just below where the cable enters the swage fitting. You'll see a small flat area. This accomplishes two things. First, it will keep the furler luff above the turnbuckle and out of your way so you don't have to hold it up. Second, you should keep one hand on the vice grip and the other to adjust the turbuckle with a screwdriver. Holding the vicegrip will keep the forestay cable from twisting. Otherwise, you will ruin it. I learned this lesson the hard way. After you set the correct tension and put in the cotter pins, carefully lower the drum and washer in place. Then step on the top of the drum to keep it from lifting and raise the furler luff above the pin hole of the top drum housing. Insert the pin & ring-ding, making sure the furler luff rests on top of the pin when you let it go. This is crucial so that the luff doesn't come in contact with the turnbuckle. All done... well except for hoisting your genoa , etc.

Leon

[blueskiesup]

The vicegrip is a very good tip, I don't want to twist the new forestay!!!