I need to replace an obsolete Hood Seafurl 705continuous line roller furling system on my Catalina 25 tall rig. Which is the better choice CDI FF4 ($500) or Hood Seaflex 1000 ($390)? Another more expensive option is the Profurl C290 ($680). The CDI and Hood systems come in coiled loops. From what I understand it is not a big deal to uncoil and install. The CDI must be uncoiled within a few days of receipt. Information on the Hood is less clear but apparently not as much an issue on this point. I will be installing the replacement system with the mast up.
Thanks for any help!
Take a look at the Schaefer Snapfurl 700 and the Harken units also.
I don't have any experience with the Hood Unit, but between the CDI and the Pro-Furl there is no contest IMO. Pro-Furl is the better choice.
I've had very good luck with the Snapfurls, usually sold to sailors with smaller boats that have become frustrated or have broken a CDI furler.
The CDI site shows a retail price for a FF4 as $810 + $166 for ball bearings. That you can buy one for $500 tells me that there is a huge profit selling them.
By "installing with the mast up" do you mean to install the new unit on the old headstay from the deck? IMO any new furler should get a new stay. Most headstays are as old as the furler, unless you have changed out the stay it is probably overdue.
