Traveller End Block Removal

[hakulad]

I have a 1982 Catalina 30 purchased last year, I believe the traveler is the original equipment. The plastic rollers (for the lines) on the cars are broken, the yard advised that the rollers themselves could not be replaced, but that I needed to get new cars , that was easy enough from Catalina Direct. It would appear the only way to replace the cars is to remove one of the "end blocks" large black hard rubber stoppers at either end of the track. There is a silver "push button" that would appear to be a release that would allow for this, however I cannot seem to make the pin move. I have tried WD40, and graphite, even a few raps with the captains tool (hammer) however no luck. I have been reluctant to wail away on them as I am not 100% sure this is stuck "release button".

I am sure others have replaced these traveler cars, any suggestions for how to remove the end block, or am I going about this all wrong?

Thanks

Dave

 

[Dean5735]

I did mine a couple years ago, can't remember right now, in a little while I will look at it again and post back.(boat is here at home).

 

[Bad Obsession]

One of the upgrades for the MKII was the travler upgrade. They went to the straight traveler unstead of the arched traveler. You may want to consider that upgrade if you can do it because it is supposed to be really benificial.

 

[gwp]

Maybe can help.....

Just in case you have not yet solved your problem....and getting no help here.......I have noticed the end caps you speak of on my C30 which I am bringing back to life. On the port side, I grabbed it, pulled and it came off in my hand??? I looked at the starboard side and saw the "pin" you mentioned. I am as puzzled as you......but I can tell you on the port side, the pin was missing and there is just an empty hollow down into the track. I agree, the pin on the other side looks like a push button, but I don't think it is. If you haven't already tried, try getting a grip with....something.....and try pulling up. If this fails, I would call tech support at Catalina Direct....what great folks they are. I would appreciate your posting the remedy to this for my benefit. Thanks

 

[Stu Jackson]

What kind of traveler is it?

I have a 1982 Catalina 30 purchased last year, I believe the traveler is the original equipment...I am sure others have replaced these traveler cars, any suggestions for how to remove the end block, or am I going about this all wrong?

Dave,

Is it a Nicro Fico system or an older Garhauer? If Garhauer, call them, they'll help. PB Blaster, am impact driver and heat are usually helpful applications for removing the type of material that you described. If you choose to upgrade to a Garhauer system, taking the parts apart may not be necessary - remove the whole track system and replace it with the new Garhauer equipment, which many, many C30 owners have done, as well as C34 and C36 owners. Our track was fine, but we bought the new cars with the improved purchase ratio: what a tremendous difference! Having a working traveler system is, as you know, a very useful upgrade, if not a safety issue. We also have a friend who's been sailing longer, and further, than I ever have, he upgraded hsi traveler and continues to swear that he leaves it centered, and never moves it! Takes all kinds.

 

[Down East]

Traveler end block removal

I just removed mine--just pull up on the pin with pliers or visegrips. Good Luck.

 

[Narly Fred]

Traveller pins

Just pull the pins with a pair of pliers. THey are only held in by friction.

 

[Anonymous 121765]

H,
My 1980 C30 has a curved "I" track. My end control blocks needed replacement along with the delrin rollers on the traveler car also.

I contacted Kent Nelson @ Catalina, he's a treasure chest of knowledge on older C30's. Go to: http://www.catalinayachts.com/ and look for their phone number when you have questions.

He put me on to: http://www.rigrite.com/Travellers/NF_Travellers/NF610.html
Kent told me they have alot of replacement parts for the older traveler systems. You can get the delrin rollers (traveler car) if replacement is needed (4 rollers for $30.00 approx.). Catalina has replacement end control blocks for $130.95 shipping included.

If you have a straight track, I have a brand new set of Shaeffer end control blocks which was my first choie, unfortunately they do not fit the curved track. Shaeffer # 74-84. Compare this to Catalina Direct's version, you'll see what's a better deal. Sheaffer wanted $183.95 ea. I found them for $75.00 ea.

As for your pin problems, vice grips should do the trick.

CR