Luff slides

[Mrstarskydean]

My luff slides are sticking here, not just the first one but each & every one, both going up or down. otherwise they are fine moving along the mast. Cleared out, cleaned and used silicone lubricant.
Any ideas why this has started to be a problem? Are they just worn out and need replacing?

 

[Stemar]

Could it be that the gate isn't returning fully? Maybe the pivot at the bottom of the gate that's stiff, the spring that's become weak, or maybe just a bit of dirt somewhere?

I have the same arrangement, and I've wondered how I'd get it off for maintenance should it prove necessary.

 

[Martin_J]

I know that you say the slides are good the rest of the way up - but it's still worth checking that they are actually the ones specified for the particular mast section. Some people just buy new slides thinking that because they look similar they must be the same.

The Selden Sailmaker guide pages 8/9 detail which should be used with which mast section (and respective gate)..
Selden 595-542-E Sailmakers guide.pdf

Excerpt below showing some of the subtle differences..



Regarding the gate - That is shown on page 22 of the above guide but there is more detail in the Sail Entry guide linked below that shows how it comes out revealing the spring pad behind.

Selden excerpts 595-808-E-50-51 Sail entry.pdf

 

[Mrstarskydean]

I know that you say the slides are good the rest of the way up - but it's still worth checking that they are actually the ones specified for the particular mast section. Some people just buy new slides thinking that because they look similar they must be the same.

The Selden Sailmaker guide pages 8/9 detail which should be used with which mast section (and respective gate)..
Selden 595-542-E Sailmakers guide.pdf

Excerpt below showing some of the subtle differences..

View attachment 133253

Regarding the gate - That is shown on page 22 of the above guide but there is more detail in the Sail Entry guide linked below that shows how it comes out revealing the spring pad behind.

Selden excerpts 595-808-E-50-51 Sail entry.pdf

View attachment 133254

I've never thought to check - I'm to do that now.............

 

[jamie N]

The luff slider appears to be 'slightly' too large for the guide at that point. I'd the same and used a small file to just improve the fit on the slider.

 

[wilkinsonsails]

Try the luff slide fixed to the head board with webbing. This holds it in a more ridged manner to fit thru the gate and not tip and jamb in the gate .