Jib Furler question.

[ed stack]

The circa 1980 Hood furler currently on our P32 is being forcibly retired. To many oval or flat bearings. So we are replacing the forestay, and the furler as part of our off-season retrofit.

A general question: is there a benefit of going Schafer (1100) over Furlex (200s), or vice versa? We were originally thinking Schafer, but the NE boat show visit got us thinking Furlex.

Would be curious to hear any opinions.

Thanks, ed

 

[TLW]

Having installed many different furlers on various customers' boats, I continue to hold FURLEX furlers in the highest regard. Highest quality materials, intelligent and stylish design, & smooth operation. You do have to deal with the sta-loc fitting - not a big deal, but new to some.

 

[thinwater]

The circa 1980 Hood furler currently on our P32 is being forcibly retired. To many oval or flat bearings. So we are replacing the forestay, and the furler as part of our off-season retrofit.

A general question: is there a benefit of going Schafer (1100) over Furlex (200s), or vice versa? We were originally thinking Schafer, but the NE boat show visit got us thinking Furlex.

Would be curious to hear any opinions.

Thanks, ed

I'm not saying the unit and forestay are not due for replacement--probably is at that age--but bearing replacement is not very difficult and the parts are very cheap. So perhaps this is only for other reader's benifit.

http://sail-delmarva.blogspot.com/2009/09/hood-seafurl-800-bearing-replacement.html

My only thought is that I would look for SS bearings that can be greased. Good luck!

 

[Warren Milberg]

I replaced my Hood CL furler with a Furlex 200 soon after I bought my boat in 2003. It was a "relatively" good choice in that the Furlex is a high quality, expensive system that comes with a new forestay. That said, it is critical to get the exit angle from the drum to the first block correct and I had to play with this angle to find the best spot to avoid line overlays jamming the drum. It helps a lot with this model furler to keep a constant pressure on the furling line when unfurling the headsail. I have often wondered if the closed drum on this unit is an asset or a hindrance....

 

[ed stack]

Thanks for the feedback. Much appreciated.

 

[michellepinto]

Furlex is better. Do not compromise on quality when picking parts for your forestay since it carries the entire weight of the rig.