Oceanis 411 Sheet Pockets

[Oceanis]

I have very recently bought a 2001 Oceanis 411 Clipper and I'm in the process of tidying her up ready for next Spring. On either side of the companion way, there is a net bag to store the sheet tails in. Can anyone please tell me how I can remove these bags? They look as though they are fixed with press studs but I have had a good pull and they don't seem to want to come off. I am afraid to pull too hard in case I'm wrong and pull the fixings out of the GRP. They certainly look like they were fitted by Beneteau as they have a canvas strip that is colour matched with the sprayhood, etc.

 

[Pinnacle]

I have very recently bought a 2001 Oceanis 411 Clipper and I'm in the process of tidying her up ready for next Spring. On either side of the companion way, there is a net bag to store the sheet tails in. Can anyone please tell me how I can remove these bags? They look as though they are fixed with press studs but I have had a good pull and they don't seem to want to come off. I am afraid to pull too hard in case I'm wrong and pull the fixings out of the GRP. They certainly look like they were fitted by Beneteau as they have a canvas strip that is colour matched with the sprayhood, etc.

Welcome to the forum!!

We have a 2003 411 celebration model and it sounds like we have idential halliard bags! I think they do just pop off ( never actually tried though ) but they are bound to be v stiff if they havent been touched for many years. A quick spray of WD40 might just do the trick. Love to hear how you get on.

 

[Oceanis]

Many thanks, I will give them a good dose of WD40 and pull a bit harder!!

 

[emsworthy]

Another option may be to pour boiling water over the fixings. It'll do no harm to the grp or canvas but has been known to release salt corroded fittings on many occasions in my experience.

Of course, if for some reason it doesn't work, there's no damage and you can always sit and have a nice cuppa whilst considering your next move!

 

[Oceanis]

Again many thanks....I'll have another go at them next week and let you know how I get on.

 

[Oceanis]

Well, the WD40 did the trick BUT........the mechanism is a bit more complex than a straight pull-off. You need to get hold of the top section and pull. This is spring loaded and releases its grip on the fitting attached to the companion way. The fitting looks like the ball from a ball and socket joint.

Would have gone for the boiling water (and cup of tea) approach but forgot to take the removable bits for the over/hob back down to the boat!!

 

[Skysail]

When you put it back together smear some vaseline over the stud. Also works for press studs and seems to last for years.