Buying a used roller furler, what to consider?

[masthugg]

Hi,

If I where to buy a used roller furler, perhaps including a profile. What do i need to consider? Can I make it work as long as the profile is longer than my forestay? What about forestay diameter? I have never studied a furler up close so i don’t know what needs to match.

Assuming I don’t buy a grossly oversized roller for my 25 ft boat.

 

[Tranona]

Welcome to the forum

Chances of finding a functioning furling gear are very small. Why would anyone sell one?

Look at the Plastimo gear which is designed for smaller boats and not that expensive new.

 

[masthugg]

Thanks but there are boat scrappers in my area (sweden) that often sell working gear. Sailboat prices are ridiculously low here. People don’t find buyers.

 

[Tranona]

OK

Then look for one that is suitable for a 4mm forestay which is probably what your boat has. The ability to shorten the foil depends on the type so you will have to assess each one. Most are made up of sections which are joined in different ways. Over time they can become very difficult to dismantle and remake. Important also to ensure your sail has the correct lff tape to match the foil.

 

[Praxinoscope]

Thanks but there are boat scrappers in my area (sweden) that often sell working gear. Sailboat prices are ridiculously low here. People don’t find buyers.

That’s interesting, maybe next time I’m looking for a boat I’ll include a trip to Sweden.
I don’t normally disagree with tranona, but I would suggest that with a 25 foot boat your forestay is more likely to be 6mm.
Have a look at the Plastimo website for the fitting instructions for their roller reefing, it might help you to see how it’s done and how you might adapt a used one for your boat.

 

[masthugg]

I think i have 4 mm forestay, but i’d have to check again. Is it a bad idea to buy a roller including a, say, 6 mm forestay?

I think my best bet is to buy a roller+profile+forestay off a boat exactly like mine. If i would buy only a used roller and try to buy the other stuff new, the cost will be similar to buying a package.

 

[Tranona]

You have it exactly right. Unless you can buy one that is an almost exact fit it really is not worth it. A 6mm forestay is far too big for your boat and expect you will have to change fittings on the mast and deck to take it.

I assume Plastimo furlers are available where you are. if so they are the most economical way of getting furling. The 609 type which is suitable for your boat is under £500 in the UK.

 

[Praxinoscope]

You have it exactly right. Unless you can buy one that is an almost exact fit it really is not worth it. A 6mm forestay is far too big for your boat and expect you will have to change fittings on the mast and deck to take it.

I assume Plastimo furlers are available where you are. if so they are the most economical way of getting furling. The 609 type which is suitable for your boat is under £500 in the UK.

I think the 6mm forestay depends a lot on the boat, my Sadler 25 has 6mm, so did my old Invicta and I seem to remember that my friends Centaur also had a 6mm forestay, but of course this is only limited sample.