Rope clutch replacement

[yelkenli]

My C27 has the Sophus Berendsen EasyLock clutches that need replacement or repair. One of the handles broke off, and the lines do not run easily (which I suspect is age or fat lines from the previous owner.)

Reading through some threads on this forum, if I want to replace with new clutches, it looks like I have to drill and tap new holes in the underlying aluminum plate.
I would assume this is not possible if

• the hole foot prints overlap
• the screw diameters are different

Has anyone had that problem?

I don't find footprint patterns in the on-line literature of new clutches. I assume I will have to contact sales support to get that, or am I missing something?

The footprint of the SBs is 0.83 (21mm) (side to side for the double clutch) and 3.35 (85mm) end to end. Pic of the screw is below.

Lastly, the boat is a C27. What is the good quality/value brand? - something that is well made and made to last, but not high performance racing?

Thanks!

 

[dlochner]

When you narrow down your search look for the installation instructions online The instructions may have a drilling template you can print to check the hole alignment.

 

[Foswick]

Staying within that footprint narrows your options. It looks like, though you showed two different clutches, it is the Sophus Berendsen clutch that is broken. If so, you might be out of luck for a direct replacement. Too bad it's not the EasyLock because it looks like you might be able to get replacement parts, as BSI Rigging seems to own that brand now. Though, it isn't clear to me that it is the same design, since they only show the updated version on their website. Still, it might be nearly identical:

A replacement arm: Easy lock 1 Spare Parts - BSI Rigging
Template: https://bsidk.com/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/MINI_hole-template-6.pdf

Not sure if that helps you, since the broken clutch is something else.

 

[yelkenli]

I am open to replacing with a new brand and different foot print. What is a good brand - quality but not cutting edge competitive?

 

[thinwater]

The most common cause of broken handles is forcing the handle closed after the line has engaged the cam. Since the cam has already rotated, it takes a lot of force to cram the cam further into the line. Not good for the rope either. You need to close the handle while the load is still on the winch.

 

[dLj]

I personally would use acetal (Delrin) and build new handles as long as the rest of that clutch was in good shape.

dj

 

[TimFromLI]

I have spinlock. I like them. I also like the fact that they sell rebuild kits that make my 30 year old clutches work like new. They come in two sizes depending on the lines that you plan to use.

 

[Dalliance]

I’ve had Garhauer rope clutches since 2010 and am still very happy with them.

 

[stickinthemud57]

A few years back I outfitted my boat with Lewmar DC1 clutches and cannot imagine an easier-to-use option. The "domino" design, in addition to holding the line firmly, does so without damaging it the way that older designs can. When it is in the locked position (lever down), the line slides easily in one direction but locks when the line attempts to go the other way. This enables the user to raise a halyard with the clutch in fully locked position, and holds the line firmly when the line is released. Easing the clutch off is much easier than the old design as well. Just make sure you have the line wrapped around a winch or such before releasing the clutch.

The D1 was the right choice for my lightweight boat. The D2's are for larger boats/greater loads.

 

[thinwater]

Why not just replace the handles (I did this for one a few years back--I had several old ones I had been given and scavenged them for parts).

Easylock Replacement Handles

Or as DLJ says, if they are out of stock. Easier than replacing the clutch. Personally, I kind of like the old classic design. Nice and compact. I have them on my bobstay tackle (my bowsprit hinges).

 

[Hayden Watson]

I’ve had Garhauer rope clutches since 2010 and am still very happy with them.

I agree. Garhauer is pretty hard to beat when it comes to value for the boat buck. Their stuff is not as sexy as some of the others but it always does the job and lasts a very long time.

 

[yelkenli]

Why not just replace the handles

I saw the ones in your link. I am unsure if they are the same handles. Mine are 0.94 x 0.71 inches at the pin end (rotation as shown in the RigRite picture x side to side as the pin goes through respectively), and are on a Sophus EasyLock. Rig-Rite states theirs are 0.81 inches wide, don't give a third dimension, and are for EasyLock 1.

If you know that they fit the EasyLock or some updated EasyLock 1. If you know, please clarify.

 

[heritage]

I have this old double clutch that you can have. Just compensate me for packing and postage.



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