Rope Clutch Handle Replacement

[tgrass462]

Our 1999 260 has rope clutches mounted on top of the cabin. I'm not sure of the brand name (I'll check this this weekend) - but one of the handles on the one of the starboard side clutches broke off - almost at the base. I was able to redirect my main sail halyard to the block reserved for the Spinnaker (we don't have a spinnakar at this time) - so in that regard we're OK ... but in the interest of having EVERYTHING in working condition - my question - is it possible to replace just the handle of a rope clutch - or -must the entire unit be replaced?

Tom Grass
Grasshopper III

 

[Kordie]

You can change the handles easily enough.

Once you know the brand and model then you can buy all the parts needed.

I have a rule that the clutches do not get left open unless there is a reason. Too easy for someone to stand on them and break a handle. But new boat is ok as the clutches are under the dodger and impossible to stand on but the boats we race have no dodger and everyone is in a rush so they are too easily broken.

 

[Richard Bryer]

Having just replaced the "handle" on one of my Lewmar D2s I am not sure the adverb easy applies. I ended up replacing the whole internal mechanism- the "dominos" as I had bought a used one off ebay for the handle ( $40 vs 50 for just a new handle. I had to disassemble the one side ( 2 clutch model) to get the through pin out and I could not figure out how to get the other pin out of the broken handle. It looks like it should drive out with a punch but I couldn't make it budge.

 

[Landlocked Todd]

I've got a 1999 H260 and the original clutches are Spinlock XA's I believe. I think those clutches are out of production and replaced by the XAS model. However, you can still buy the replacement handles for the XA's. I had a handle break during operation but I ended up replacing the entire clutch as I went from a double to a triple for more capacity.

 

[BrianW]

I bought my Spinlock XA handles from Mauri Pro Sailing. I recommend you closely inspect the other handles, side fairings and other parts before ordering your replacement handle. Another one of my other handles and a side fairing were also cracked and would have failed later. BrianW

http://www.mauriprosailing.com/category/Spinlock-Rope-Clutch-Parts-Accessories.html

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

If removal of the clutch is necessary, it is bolted on as there is an aluminum plate embedded in the fiberglass. There are four bolts. Never leave the clutch handle in the up position because if you do and someone falls on it possibly breaking, one can serioulsy injure themselves with the handle puncturing the abdomen. It has happenned once to my knowledge.