Spinlock power clutch XTS 0814 - failure to lock

[Sailor Rach]

Hi,

I've got a number of these clutches on the mast for various halyards. They were professionally installed from new nearly three years ago and I've since been off sailing around the Atlantic, so they've seen some action but have largely been left to their own devices to hold the sails up. About a year ago, when one clutch lever was opened whilst the halyard was on the drum taking the load, I noticed the internal cam pop out (presumably as it should to release the rope). However, when the lever was redeployed to lock the rope, this cam did not press back in - so the rope was still free to run. No problem, I thought, lock off the rope and deal with it later when I can get some spares. So I ignored it until I got back and now, frustratingly, two more have failed.

Does anyone have experience with fixing these? Spinlock's on-line info is fairly brief: 1) wash it out with fresh water, and if that doesn't work; 2) replace the cam module, and if that doesn't work; 3) spend lots of money replacing all.

Appreciate any thoughts you may have - these are expensive babies so I'd rather get the toolbox out before my purse.

Sailor Rach

 

[jwilson]

First thing to try is some very light lubrication on the cam holders sides - preferably McLube not oil or grease. Other thing that can mess the operation up is a tiny rubber strip at the back of the handle end falling out. Spinlock sent me some spare rubber bits FOC. They CAN be fitted with the clutch in place, but I found it very difficult. Easy when clutches removed and dismantled. I have had to replace some cams though as springs broke, and the springs come built into the cam assembly "wedge". They were not FOC !

 

[Talulah]

I had a Spinlock XCS clutch do the same. It was very rarely used. When I did go to use the clutch the clam didn't spring back and so the rope wasn't gripped.
The clams are readily available from Chandlers.
The other clutches of the same age all work fine but they are frequently used.
The problem with the clams is I just can't see how you can service that component. It doesn't break down further.
Hence frequent use is the only solution. Perhaps consider swapping clutches around to spread their use.

 

[Sailor Rach]

Thanks for the suggestions - when it doubt it turns out a good clean, some McLube, and some waggling of the lever fixed two. Be careful anyone doing this - the spring can bite fingers when re-threading the halyard. The old lock is still a bit suspect but Spinlock have asked for some photos so they can troubleshoot, so it may be the spare rubber bit jwilson mentioned (hopefully!)