Do I need a Roller Furler?

I bought a used 18, but it did not have the Roller Furler amongst other parts. Do I need it to sail? I don't know what the previous owner did, but don't really want to purchase this expensive part.
Much thanks,
Robert

You don't necessarily need the roller furler to sail. However, the furler assembly acts as the junction between the bridle wires and forestay as well as the connection point for the jib tack. The swaged fork fittings on the ends of the bridle wires are designed to engage the tabs on the furler. So without the furler, you'll have to piece together something that will allow you to connect the bridle wires to the forestay and jib.

Another down side is that you're jib will flog itself while on the beach or while taking a break since you won't be able to furl it.

If I were you, I'd search around for a used one. Also, the furler is not specific to the 18, so you could use a furler off a 14, 16, 17, 20, or 21.

FYI - one just popped up in the classified section today.

sm

I've got a spare too. Let me know if you are interested.

Yeah, I think the previous owner just made the connections at the junction without the Roller Furler. I'm OK with letting it "flap" or be "loose" when not actively using as long as it won't damage anything. IF it saves me $250. then I'll just be a little sloppy looking.

What the other gentleman are trying to politely say ....

Yes ... while you do not need a "furler" .... if you allow your jib to "flog" ...ie: flap in the breeze, you will GREATLY reduce the lifespan of the jib.

Let's see ... a replacement furler ... maybe $250.00

A replacement jib will run you $200.00 for a cheap non-Hobie factory jib ..... (and it will not last too long) .... a "Hobie" made "Class Legal" jib ... +$400.00 ... (and it will last for a longer period of time ...)

Remember ... a H18 Jib does not have battens like a H16 jib .... the battens help keep the jib's shape and from beating itself to death when allowed to flog .... but w/ the large overlap of the H18 you would not be able to tack the jib ...

Your choice ..... spend alittle now ... or a whole lot more later ....

... And the gentleman that posted previously .... they do have just a "LITTLE" experience ..... (sic) .... (I would listen to their advice ...)

_________________
HarryMurphey
H-18 mag/ #9458
Fleet 54 Div 11

I saw one on the beach cats for $50, it would be well worth that to pick a used one up.

_________________
2010 AHPC C2 #218