Headsail furling

[Charlie]

I am getting lazy in my old age. I am considering a Schafer CF-500 furling system for my 23.5....Is this a good route to go...open for suggestions.....

 

[dan vereker]

CDI furling

greetings charlie, i have cdi on my 260 . roller furling is the only way to go. you'll have alot more control of your sail plan also by controling how much jib for different wind conditions. fair winds and good sailing dan

 

[Gary]

CDI

I agree with Dan. I have had a CDI on my 1993 23.5 for 9 years with no problems. I just ordered a 240 with the same system. They are reasonably priced, sturdy and dependable.

 

[Dave Royce]

I agree--- CDI

I installed a CDI FF4 with ball bearings last year. Best upgrade I have done. No more going forward to rig the headsail. I recommend the CDI. It was easy to install and no maintenance issues.DaveSimply Magic

 

[Ray Bowles]

Charlie, The CDI on my H26 is great. The trick

is in the use of the jib when furled from 20 to 35 percent. You need an adjustable block for the jib sheets. As you retract or "reef" the jib sail by using the furler unit it will start to flog itself to death. If you can move the jib sheet blocks forward as you reef the jib the boat will really "haul the mail."You will love any type of furling unit.RayS/V Speedy

 

[Gerard]

the alternative

I've said it here before, and it's not the popular opinion, but if money is not a major issue go with the Harken RF. I've had both and the Harken is far far away superior. I had a larger Harken unit on my previous boat and when we switched to a smaller trailerable (an H26) it came with the CDI. I've had to rebuild the CDI unit every spring. When I called the company last year with some questions about a constantly recurring problem the owner answered the phone and could have not been less helpful, and in fact condescending. I had photos that he didn't want to see and suggested I take the thing to a "rigger who knows what they're doing." I rarely had problems with the Harken, always simple to fix (even on the fly). I know my experience is not the norm, but IMHO if you spend the money on the Harken you'll never know what problems you've avoided.Good luck...