How to repair the problems of a genoa furler?
Genoa furlers are part of the rigging of most current yachts. They are made up of several components including a drum, a profile and a swivel. Each of its components has its utility in the operation of the genoa furler. Unfortunately, it can happen that malfunctions occur due to incorrect settings or lack of maintenance. In the open sea, this kind of situation is not pleasant, especially if you do not know how repair a genoa furler. But by following the advice that we present to you here, you should come to the end of the frequent genoa furling problems.
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What problems can you have with your genoa furler?
If you notice that your genoa furler is having trouble furling and that you have to force every time during maneuvers (especially in strong winds), then you should know that there is a malfunction. Problems can have various origins. In general, this is genoa furling adjustments poorly done. But it is not uncommon for the device of the reel itself to fail. So it is necessary to repair the genoa furler.
Here are genoa furling problems The most common :
Furling genoa halyard problem
It can happen that the halyard wraps around the forestay or gets caught in the swivel of the genoa. This can be caused by the fact that there is an overlooked angle of fire at the swivel. In addition, a winding of the halyard around the forestay is generally the cause of the untangling or the fall of the mast. To identify this kind of problem, you need to check the forestay (is it tight?) And the swivel to see if the problem is from the top. To be sure you are dealing with a halyard problem, you can also put down the genoa and try to run the furler empty. If everything rolls correctly, then the problem is indeed with the halyard.
Furling line problem
Some stiffness may occur if the reel line is not following the correct path or if its turns around the drum have been improperly made. More precisely, there is overshoot: the furling of the genoa furling line was messed up and caused a blockage. This problem is often caused by too fast unwinding of the genoa when the line is not well controlled. To identify this type of problem, approach the reel and check if the turns have been done correctly. An incorrectly positioned deflection pulley can also cause overtaking. Take a look at the deflection pulley.
Blockage problem inside the genoa furler
The genoa furler is one of the equipment most exposed to sea spray on a sailboat. If you don't do a regular maintenance of the genoa furler, then the latter can get stuck at any time. This is because the salt mixes with the grease found on the spare parts and, over time, a seizure phenomenon can occur. In order to identify if the problem is with the furler itself, it is essential to remove the genoa and try to run your furler when empty. If it gets stuck, then you have confirmation that the problem is in the reel.
Solutions to repair genoa furling problems
What to do when faced with one of these genoa furling problems ? First of all :
- Check if the genoa halyard is tight
- Check if the backstay is well tucked.
- Make sure you lubricate regularly at the necessary points.
Solve a halyard problem
If the halyard gets caught in the swivel and / or wraps around the forestay, then the problem may be with the swivel. However, before trying complicated solutions, first check whether the halyard is tight when taken up on the balcony. If not, then unroll the genoa and tension the halyard again. If this alternative does not work, then try greasing the swivel parts with marine grease and apply WD40. Also check that there has been no untangling at the level of the forestay. If this is the case, removal of the entire device becomes mandatory to resolve the problem.
NB : In order to prevent halyard-related problems, it is advisable to install, about 15 cm above the swivel, a halyard return pulley against the mast of the boat. The shore to the mast should be made so that the line coming out of the swivel makes an angle of approximately 40 degrees. Thus, you ensure a better angle of shot.
Repairing a genoa furling problem related to the furling line
This kind of genoa furling problem is rather easy to solve. You need to wrap the line properly around the drum again. To do this, simply turn the profile of your reel by hand until the first correct turn of the furling line. But make sure your genoa is shocked before proceeding with this maneuver. Also make sure that the first idler pulley is positioned at the correct distance.
NB : Always maintain tension on the line and on the sheet when maneuvering to avoid genoa furler overriding problems in the future.
Repair a problem with the genoa furler
To avoid malfunctions, it is necessary to carry out regularmaintenance of the genoa furler. A rinse in a degreasing liquid and regular lubrication can help prevent seizures. But if you are already facing the problem, then the first solution is to rinse the hose reel thoroughly under pressure at the drain hole. Recommend rinsing for at least 15 minutes. This should remove all the salt that has accumulated in the bearings of your genoa furler. Then try to lubricate the device by applying a product such as spray lubricant.
What should you do if none of the previous solutions fixed the problem with your genoa furler?
If you've tried everything and your genoa furler remains blocked, then you are forced to dismantle the genoa furler in order to release the seizure necessary for its repair. In addition to the necessary tools, provide WD40 to facilitate the removal of gaskets and screws. Then clean the mechanical parts with degreasing liquid, rinse thoroughly and lubricate. However, if you notice that the parts are wearing too much, consider purchasing a new Facnor reel, a Furlex reel, a Harken reel or other reliable brand. SUVs can cut the bill by looking for used genoa furlers. You can find some in very good condition for much less than new ones on Amazon, Ebay et CDiscount. This equipment is designed to last for years to come so you can get a good deal!
