The retractable spinnaker bowsprit on the Hunter 216 is a hollow fiberglass tube through which the spinnaker tack line has to pass as the spinnaker is raised. As this happens, the tack line necessarily doubles back on itself, and wears against the thin edge of the tube, because the spinnaker tack is pulled from the hold by the other end of the line aft of the bowsprit. The forward edge of the tube now has irregular grooves worn in it. Has anybody tried to modify the end of the tube to rectify this unbelievably ill-conceived rigging?
spinnaker bowsprit
- Thread starter jjbrainard@comcast.net
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sounds like you're missing the cap over the forward end of the tube that the lines run through. The edge on mine is not exposed for the tack line to rub on... I would consider adding a "doughnut" style fairlead if you can't get the cap-look at the forespar poles to see what the part looks like. I would think you can machine a larger one to fit
Thanks. I take it standard equipment has been lost. Not sure what the "cap" looks like, whether it is annular or a full cap with a guide opening for the tack line. I'm wondering how it is attached to the tube. Hope I can find it.
I'll try to uncover my bow this weekend and get you a picture-You could also ask SBO (here) if they can get the part.
Here it is-it's a delrin plug machined to fit in the tube with holes for the retract line and the guy. hope this helps.
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The plug on our bowsprit has been pulled into the tube about 4 inches. The end of the tube is badly frayed now, and couldn't properly retain a new plug. It's obvious now we'll need a new tube and plug. I think I should be able to find it online. Just hoping it doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Thanks for all your help.
Good suggestion. First I'll have to push out the plug. And I have no idea how it is retained at the end of the tube or how it got pulled inside.
I discovered that the plug has been pulled inside the end of the tube about 4 inches. I am going to try to push it back out with a long piece of PVC pipe with a bit smaller diameter than the tube. Then I will saw off the frayed end of the tube. My only question at this point is how the plug is retained at the end of the tube. Maybe its a friction fit, maybe it's glued into place. Any ideas, suggestions?
Something is very strange with your pole. That cap should be wider at the end (matching the outside diameter of the the pole), and not be able to slide any father inside the pole. Not sure how it got where it is now, but is is unlikely that it has any useful adhesive, based on it current position.
I'd try and ram it out, but worst case you could cut 6 inches (behind the plug) off that pole and still be OK. Actual pole length on that boat is not that important.
I'd try and ram it out, but worst case you could cut 6 inches (behind the plug) off that pole and still be OK. Actual pole length on that boat is not that important.
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