H18sx Comptip Luff Track

So I just noticed the crack below in the bottom/plastic section of the luff track on my comptip.
My boat stays on the beach, mast-up, and haven't noticed any issues raising, lowering, or sheeting the sail because of this. I was just wondering if this is a big deal that needs to be addressed, or something I can live with for a while.
It seems like this track would be a PIA to replace.
I'd appreciate any opinions...thanks.

Looks like it should be OK for the time being. May or may not get longer. Might want to try dripping some epoxy resin sapringly into the crack to prevent further cracking. Same thing happened to me some time ago and that is what I did. Eventually replaced the track only. Can be a little tricky replacing but do-able. Keep an eye on E-bay they come up every so often. Jim.

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ADDICTION
1989 HOBIE 18 SE/sx wings
HOBIE ALTER SIGNATURE MODEL

I wouldn't use epoxy. It probably won't stick well to the plastic and will just make a mess and possibly clog the track. I would drill a hole at each end of the crack to stop it from growing. If you haven't noticed any issues, I'd say keep using it. The only concern would be if the crack is towards the top of the mast, the mainsheet load may try to spread it open.

sm

I agree with srm, epoxy or any other adhesive will not help. I would sail with it in light air, but make plans to order a replacement. It is very easy to take out, but you need to be very careful not to chip the fiberglass track it sits on.

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H17

Hello flaco,
I'm in the middle of doing a replacement.

My new Luff track came with instructions.

Surf City Catamarans stocks them. Try Mikey at 855-446-4624 or your closes dealer. Mine cost $115.00

Pry out, not up when removing.





I'm going to apply some soap when reinstaling to help it slide into place.

Good Luck,

Corkguy H18's

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Corkguy H18, Tiger, Wildcat

does the 18 use an aluminum track on top end?I think i read something about it when running square top sail to prevent it from pulling out on top>

My understanding is that is an addtional upgrade and that you have to remove the comptip from the mast to install it.

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Corkguy H18, Tiger, Wildcat

Not necessary to remove the whole Comptip. Just the track, so you can trim off the end.

The aluminum section isn't typically necessary for the 18 (it was developed for the 17 and 21SC), but it should work to handle the extra sheet tension you need for a square top.