If the bungees are loose or getting really fatigued, the Amas can pop out. I experienced this on a few of my initial sails after purchasing a used AI.
Usually happens in a stiff wind, when side swells are hitting the boat. The Akas are flexing, and the side to side rocking, combined with swells hitting the outriggers can torque the connection just as the bungee stretches out. At first, you will experience the collar popping 1/2 way out and this is really the time to fix it. Usually the rear one, which is shallower, wants to hop out first.
It believe it happens more so with the tramps set tightly in place, because they are now pulling the Aka bars toward each other and influencing pressures at the collar connection. I'll have to roll them up and see if they react differently.
I repaired the bungees long ago and my Amas are OK, but with the tramps on they still flop around more than I care for. That great double bungee mod should cure everything. I see no reason these mods would not help the bouncing TI Amas as well. Mahalo once again to the Aussie innovators!
Wrapping a thin layer of rescue tape around the Aka end caps may enhance the grip too.
Again, I get the impression that the AI tramps are pulling at the collars, causing more of a tendency for the Amas to wobble out of place whenever the bungee is stretched.
Have other tramp owners noticed this?
|
