Facnor flat deck FD230 furler

[jonasaberg]

Is there anyone with experience or any independent tests or reviews on the Facnor Flat Deck furler?

I like the idea with a webbing band that is less likelly to get stuck, and the low build height that maximize the foresail luff and make it possible to have the sail cut close to the deck for good performance.

I don't see much info or reports on the reliability or hands on experience about this furler. I dont have any personal experience with furling sails so I am a little lost and pretty much in the hand of the sales reps. I don't like on a principal basis...

What are the pros and cons of the Facnor FD furlers?
Which are the weak points in the design?
Is the webbing band sufficiently stiff?
Is it possible to furl under load or will the furler break?
How hard is it to furl?
Are you allowed/forced to use the winch?
Is this really as good as it seems compared to the more conventional competition?

I have a 42 ft yacht, 16.3 meter/10mm forestay, looking at the Facnor FD230.

There are some info on the facnor webpage:
A picture can be found by making a google image search on "facnor fd".

A pdf brochure can be found here

http://www.facnor.com/uk/products/he...fd_2013_uk.pdf
and a small video on youtube.

Facnor Flat Deck Furler - YouTube

Any comments are appreciated.

/Jonas