Need Help with a roller furling jib

[shopteacher]

I just got a 1984 Catalina 27 with a roller furling head sail. The problem is you apparently need some kind of special tool to slide up the second track to unhook the top of the head sail. I had to send someone up the mast to manually unhook the sail so I could see what the attachment looks like but I still don't know anything. Does anyone know who could manufacture this or where I could possibly purchase this tool. There isn't any brand name on the system as it is from 1984. I only know I have a bag that says reefer II on it

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[weinie]

is this your furler?

 

[shopteacher]

No I thought it was but I do not have a line that runs though the middle to raise and lower the sail. The gentleman I purchased the boat from remembers a insert that was connected to the halyard and the sail and was sent to the top where it would catch on a cam to lock the sail in place the there was a small line also attached to the "tool" that you would pull the halyard and tool back to the deck.

But thank you anyways!

 

[Stu Jackson]

Sounds like an old CDI furler. I had that "thing-a-ma-bob" with ours.

 

[shopteacher]

Thanks to both of you. You are correct. I called and spoke with the people at CDI and although they do not make any parts anymore at least it is a starting point. I guess I will search for one of the tools on line or try and manufacture one myself. They said they can convert it to a reefer I I just have to do some homework. Thank you. Since I am not going out till Saturday, I can spend time looking for places who may have one in old stock. Any ideas where to start?

 

[Stu Jackson]

eBay Craigslist

 

[hvbaker]

I'd upgrade to a new one. I have a Profurl and am very happy with it. I think it is best to have one where you can drop the sail fast if need be.