Replacing Rod Rigging

[nhschneider]

Our old Reckmann furlers have to use rod rigging so after 30 years of hard sailing, we figured it was time to replace the rod. However, once the furlers were stretched out on the ground, it became obvious that they aren't going to come apart easily. I'm at a loss on how to separate the foil sections, which I need to do to get to the nylon (I think they're nylon) bearings and spacers. The foil sections should just slide apart but they're not budging.

I sure would appreciate hearing from anyone who has faced this problem. Our rigger here in Thailand is suggesting that we buy new furlers and I'm hoping it doesn't come to that.


Fair winds and calm seas.

[Jim Cate]

I can't help you with info, but I can BUMP this interesting question

Jim

[Ex-Calif]

I don't know about yours but I am posting the Furlex 100 pics below in case yours is similar.

The assembly consists of a spacer that fits in the foil sections, bridging two foil sections. There are U shaped pins that go inside. It is a bit of a jigsaw puzzle in that they have to go in in sequence IIRC. I did mine a couple of years ago after a drum failure and forestay change.

Look for little pinholes on the leading edge to discover if your foil is assembled like this with little lock springs. I think there was some magic trick to get teh first one out and the first section off.

If the complete Furlex procedure would be helpful send me a PM with your email address and I will send it to you.