Correct name for this block please?

skyflyer

skyflyer

Well-Known Member
Joined
26 Jan 2011
Messages
1,433
Location
Worcester, UK
Visit site
vybpl2.jpg


The block through which the headsail sheet runs to return back to the winch - is it a cheek block or is that something different? These one (17 years old) have terrible friction and lock up or creak frighteningly under moderate load so I\d like to replace them this winter, but am concerned that it will weaken the hull where old screws have been and new ones have to be driven in.

Suggestions anyone?

Thanks
 
Take it apart and service it! If it is a lewmar or similar will have needle bearings which can be cleaned and re greased. Take care when dismantling not to lose any of the parts......
 
skyflyer said:
The block through which the headsail sheet runs to return back to the winch - is it a cheek block or is that something different?

Suggestions anyone?

Thanks
Click to expand...

Big load on turning blocks like that... double the load on the winch. Dont skimp on spec.
 
Most would understand them as cheel-blocks.

As already pointed out they take an enormous load and, apart from keeping the sheet low on the deck, do nothing but add friction to the system.

They're probably plain bearings, through-bolted to a backing plate.

Personally I'd just bypass them, ie bring the sheets straight to the winch, and see how it goes.

If you do decide you have to replace them try Harken http://www.harken.com/productcategory.aspx?taxid=416
or Lewmar (who call them footblocks) http://www.lewmar.com/product-listing.asp?page=2&action=search&type=138
or if you're feeling mean Barton.
 
Thanks - unfortunately if you look closely at photo you can see the edge of the spray hood so if we bypassed the block the sheet would chafe against that so definitely needs to be replaced or serviced.

I am well aware of the load - which is why I am worried about replacement because if they aren't fixed on firmly the consequences of one detaching and launching itself cross the deck could be catastrophic!

However I assumed that after this length of service it would need more than a service, i.e. possible needle rollers worn out of round or the sheave itself worn around the bearing. Not helped by fact that this is a US built boat so its probably some unusual make and imperial measurements!
 
Gosh! I feel for you. I would be terrified of that ripping out; it would be like an explosion under load. I could think of some other names than those suggested.

My boat does not have anything like that but I would like to hear the resolution to the story so please do say. Watched threads are good!
 
charles_reed said:
Most would understand them as cheel-blocks.

As already pointed out they take an enormous load and, apart from keeping the sheet low on the deck, do nothing but add friction to the system.

They're probably plain bearings, through-bolted to a backing plate.

Personally I'd just bypass them, ie bring the sheets straight to the winch, and see how it goes.

If you do decide you have to replace them try Harken http://www.harken.com/productcategory.aspx?taxid=416
or Lewmar (who call them footblocks) http://www.lewmar.com/product-listing.asp?page=2&action=search&type=138
or if you're feeling mean Barton.
Click to expand...

They 1/2 the load on the winch or if you like doubling the winch power
& if you go directly onto the winch the load is transferred onto the winch in the wrong place, IE not onto the gear driving the winch drum
 
Last edited:
TonyBuckley said:
Gosh! I feel for you. I would be terrified of that ripping out; it would be like an explosion under load. I could think of some other names than those suggested.

My boat does not have anything like that but I would like to hear the resolution to the story so please do say. Watched threads are good!
Click to expand...
My winches are 52s, & boat is built to take the loads
 
sailorman said:
They 1/2 the load on the winch or if you like doubling the winch power
& if you go directly onto the winch the load is transferred onto the winch in the wrong place, IE not onto the gear driving the winch drum
Click to expand...

No they don't . Nor do they change the power of the winch
The load on the winch stays the same, just comes from a different direction
 
Last edited:
sailorman said:
They 1/2 the load on the winch or if you like doubling the winch power
& if you go directly onto the winch the load is transferred onto the winch in the wrong place, IE not onto the gear driving the winch drum
Click to expand...

In that situation it does NOT half the load on the winch. As Vic says, there is double the sheet load on that cheek block. A far better alternative would be a block mounted about the toerail, but forward of the winch. Indeed, as far forward as possible, but still to clear the spray hood.
 
NormanS said:
In that situation it does NOT half the load on the winch. As Vic says, there is double the sheet load on that cheek block. A far better alternative would be a block mounted about the toerail, but forward of the winch. Indeed, as far forward as possible, but still to clear the spray hood.
Click to expand...
I could have chosen the words better :o
the job if the turning block is to reduce the effort & size of the winch. mounted on the toe tail forward of the winch will make sheeting req more effort on the handle
 
sailorman said:
I could have chosen the words better :o
the job if the turning block is to reduce the effort & size of the winch. mounted on the toe tail forward of the winch will make sheeting req more effort on the handle
Click to expand...

Sorry, but you're still wrong.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Share this page

Top