Main Blocks

So I finaly joined my local fleet and after sailing on other 16's I've decided that it is necessary to upgrade my main blocks from the origional 81 seaways.

I was wondering what exactly the Harken Model numbers are and was wondering if these would work too:

http://mauriprosailing.com/Merchant2/me ... ATCHMATICS

http://mauriprosailing.com/Merchant2/me ... _Code=57MM

Thanks so much,

Adam

You want this for the lower:

Harken 2629 - no becket.
The mainsheet attaches to an eyestrap above the cleat.

Alternatively:

Harken 194

The choice between is personal preference.

Upper block:

Harken 2640 40 mm Carbo block

Harken 57mm Lower Triple/swivel/ratchet/cam/becket - H194
Harken 40mm Upper Triple/swivel - H2640

This is what comes on the new 16's. You'll need 46 feet of 5/16 line. The thinner line is hard on the hands at first but it goes through the blocks so nicely.

Thanks for the quick reply Matt, Would you mind explaining the difference between the two lower blocks. Just from looking at the pictures I can't really tell what's different.

Thanks,

Adam

Matt you're to fast. Pictures and everything!

Hey Hobie Dude,
We will be practicing in Alameda this Friday if you'd like to join us. Also the Round TI regatta is on Sat and Sun on Crown Beach. www.hobie3.org

Come out and check out the boats if nothing else. It will give you a good idea of what's going on with the latest setups. I'll be running practice races on Fri in the afternoon. Call me if you want me to bring parts.

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The real difference?

About 35 bucks (the 194 is less expensive)

The usable difference lies in the ratcheting system.

The 194's ratchet is on all the time (unless you turn it off with the slide switch on the side). That means that the center pulley only rotates in one direction (freely when you pull in; acts as a drag when letting out).

The 2629 is a "Ratchamatic" block - the ratchet is pressure sensitive and only engages when there's tension in the line.

I find the 2629 to be easier to deal with in tacks - the line lets out when you need it to, yet still has the grip assistance of the ratchet when tension is on the sheet.

Downside - if you drop the sheet, you're screwed. It'll run out like you-know-what through a goose. Case in point:

The result of dropping the sheet when on the wire. (That is me, BTW - still on the wire and still steering the boat.)

Some people have claimed that the cleat angle on the 2629 is hard to adjust, but I haven't had that problem.

The 194 is basic and bulletproof. I've used them for years.

Hey, Have you seen the new Ronstan orbit blocks? They're kind of neat. They're light! The ratchet is pretty cool. I've been playing with a prototype here at the shop. The full line isn't availible here in the States yet, but they're coming.

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Ok, so I ordered the blocks. Now I have one last question. Which line do I get? Is yale light a good choice? I know I want something squishy and soft on the hands, low strech, and doesn't absorb water. Is Yale Light a good choice?

Jermey, thanks so much for the invite to RTI. I just joined Fleet 2 this past weekend, and think I may be coming down on Saturday or Sunday to check out the races. If I do come I'll be sure to find you and say hi.

Thanks so much for your help,

Adam

Check out the article on lines in the March / April HOTLINE:

http://www.hobiecat.com/hobieclass/eHCA_Hotline03-04_2007.pdf

I've got the har 194 / har 2640 blocks and use 5/16 maffioli newswift and absolutly love it!

cory

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82 named SeaBass

hehehe MBounds I know that situation all too well! I did it to myself 3 times last time out in 20 kt winds as the 5/16 sheet does take some getting used to. The third tea bag dunked us both which pulled the boat over, broke the fiberglass tiller stick in the process. Oh well it was way overdue for the Hotstick. I am impressed that there was a timely camera shot as I would have loved to have one to catch one of our events!.