tome
New member
Decided to replace all the stiff/worn mainsheet blocks which were older 'Solent' Lewmar Ocean size 2. They no longer make them so I went for the new Synchro range. They claim 5% less friction per block, and I must say they look the low-slung roticles abaft a pooch.
I had to go up a size to 90mm blocks as I didn't want to go below 12mm sheet diameter - this is equivalent to an Ocean size 3. All went ok except for the lead block which takes the line from the boom onto the organiser (thence back to cockpit). This is deck mounted on a spring plate and I had to drill new holes through the deck for the bigger plate, which I don't like.
Went out last weekend and it worked a dream until I put a reef in. Hauling the sheet afterwards, the sheet worked its way between the sheave and cheek of the lead block. It a) locked solid and b) shredded the sheet. Fortunately I had sea room but it took 30 minutes of struggle with rolling hitches, handy-billy and much boot to extricate it.
Took the block and sheet to Lewmar factory this morning on my way to the office. I'd already emailed them some pictures yesterday. They immediately replaced the block and have sent the old one for analysis. They were very helpful, and told me it shouldn't have happened. I think they will compensate for the knackered sheet also with a 'benefit in kind' so no complainst about after sales service.
I've increased the sheet diameter to 14mm and will put the new block on tomorrow and try it out. However, the old blocks did 12 years of service and I'm a bit worried that the new one lasted less than a week. Anyone else had experience of the Synchro range?
<hr width=100% size=1>
I had to go up a size to 90mm blocks as I didn't want to go below 12mm sheet diameter - this is equivalent to an Ocean size 3. All went ok except for the lead block which takes the line from the boom onto the organiser (thence back to cockpit). This is deck mounted on a spring plate and I had to drill new holes through the deck for the bigger plate, which I don't like.
Went out last weekend and it worked a dream until I put a reef in. Hauling the sheet afterwards, the sheet worked its way between the sheave and cheek of the lead block. It a) locked solid and b) shredded the sheet. Fortunately I had sea room but it took 30 minutes of struggle with rolling hitches, handy-billy and much boot to extricate it.
Took the block and sheet to Lewmar factory this morning on my way to the office. I'd already emailed them some pictures yesterday. They immediately replaced the block and have sent the old one for analysis. They were very helpful, and told me it shouldn't have happened. I think they will compensate for the knackered sheet also with a 'benefit in kind' so no complainst about after sales service.
I've increased the sheet diameter to 14mm and will put the new block on tomorrow and try it out. However, the old blocks did 12 years of service and I'm a bit worried that the new one lasted less than a week. Anyone else had experience of the Synchro range?
<hr width=100% size=1>