Sail track

[thaeni]

I'm thinking of adding a "sail track" next year. If anyone has installed
one I would appreciate any information on brand and were the results
worth the cost.
Thanks

 

[Rich Stidger]

I installed a Strong Track system about 15 years ago. It was a great improvement over the OEM slugs and the cost was about $1000-1200. Cost effective compared to the alternatives and IMHO well worth it.

 

[Rick D]

Batten Ends

I'm thinking of adding a "sail track" next year. If anyone has installed
one I would appreciate any information on brand and were the results
worth the cost.
Thanks

I did a half a** job of mimicking what Rich S. did. I had Strong Track articulating batten pockets put in when I had my main serviced this year and new slugs installed with longer webbing. No track though. Well, it made a BIG difference in how the sail falls and raising it too. I don't feel any need to put a track in. I'm really happy with the modification. Articulating pockets take the twist out which jams the slug in the sail track and makes a substantial friction reduction.

 

[Rich Stidger]

Rick,

Whatever works is good! I never would have thought of your solution.

 

[heart of gold]

I installed the Tide Marine "Sail Track System" and huge difference. I can now raise my main all the way by hand(calm to light winds) and just need to tension it with the winch. When it comes down, it does so fast with no need to pull the last bit. Reefing is a breeze. I changed it out as I considered the original slides a hazard. When it is blowing hard and I want that main down, I don't want to have to fight with it. The only problem with my roachy full batten main is that now it brushes the backstay as it crosses through. It moved off the mast slightly because of track. I am going to have to deal with it at some point. Over all I would recommend a system like this or batt cars for anyone having trouble with a full batten sail.

 

[heart of gold]

Couple of other things, It was very easy to install, even the batten pockets, and shipped fast. No I don't work for them, its just one of those products that works, and works well. I have a friend that used to own an Olson 40, been in several ocean races with this system and it never failed him in 14 years.

 

[Rich Stidger]

The only problem with my roachy full batten main is that now it brushes the backstay as it crosses through.

I had my sail-maker straighten out the leach so that it didn't hit the backstay. Simple mod, and no downside that I can see.