The comfort and adjustability of the Full-Auto is unmatched in my experience. I've tried many (in pursuit of a key-hole solution), and nothing came remotely close to the Full-Auto as far as fit and freedom: look closely at one and try it on; it is an amazingly well done piece of ergonomic engineering.
But I don't want to die by the hook. So I bought a carbon-fiber keyhole spreader from Jeremy Leonard, at Surf City Catamarans in Santa Cruz, and began the process of fitting the thing to my beloved Hobie Full-Auto.
The pics below show the end result - I don't always love the outcome of my little shop projects, but this one is a success. Hook-up and release are effortless, looking or blind. I think it is a little faster hookup than the hook.
Handles: I've seen two types - I tried the can't miss key-ball handle, but switched to the straight ball-handle, which is slightly easier to insert blind.
Strength is unknown: I've used this for about six months with no indication of any weakness. It remains very rigid, and I have never had to tighten the screws.
Weight: the CF keyhole spreader and the stainless braces have this modified harness weighing about a pound more.
Construction: The only special tool I used was the TIG welder, everything else was crude (hack-saw, hand drill, etc...)
Peace,
Dan Peake
2003 H17SE
