Chekika wrote:
In Chris' link above, some suggest the older V1 system is "simpler" (implying simpler is better.)
Not so much "better" as less prone to failure.
Chekika wrote:
One might have a good discussion about which system is "simpler."
Yep.
Chekika wrote:
In the V1 system, you have to hold the aka with one hand and line up the 4 pin holes, and then continue holding everything in place while stretching the shock cord securing the pin and slipping said pin into the 4 aligned holes with the other hand.
Yep. Do that for each aka, then get on with your day's sailing.
Chekika wrote:
Ask a newbie or your wife/girlfriend to put a V1 aka/crossbar system together for the first time and see how "simple" they think it is.
Yep. Newbies find it difficult the first time (or even the first two or three times) that they do it. I don't see why wives or girlfriends would find it any more difficult, as it just requires a bit of finesse, rather than physical strength. In fact, compared to threading a needle, it's a doddle.
Chekika wrote:
In the V2 system, you slide the knuckle insert in until it seats. Doing it with 2 hands is easier, but it can be done with one hand.
Well yeah, but you've left out a couple of things Keith:
1. Insert akas. You need to twist them to and fro a bit as you insert them but it's easy. Make sure the release buttons are cleanly engaged in their holes, as misalignment of a release button is one reported cause of aka jamming (see below).
2. Tie the akas to central points fore and aft on the boat. Either that or spend the day wondering if one or more akas is going to come adrift and cause a capsize.
3. At the end of the day, try to remove akas. If they won't budge, try twisting the aka to and fro as you attempt to pull it out. If that doesn't work, try pounding on the crossbar as you twist and pull the aka. If that doesn't work, get out the battery pliers or spring clamp which you have brought for just such an occasion. Use the pliers to compress the release buttons while pulling the aka. If that doesn't work use the pliers while twisting and pulling the aka and getting an assistant to pound on the crossbar. If that doesn't work, ask your wife of girlfriend to have a go. If that doesn't work, leave the aka in until you get home, then post on the forum and ask for any handy hints from other sufferers. Once you are home, and when/if you get the aka out, carefully hose out the aka receivers in the crossbars, as sand and mud in this area is another reported cause of aka jamming. If the problem recurs, remove the screws from the cam cleats and file them back (yep, another reported cause of akas jamming). This is a compendium of actual suggestions made by forum members.
Chekika wrote:
What is the definition of "simple" here? Would anyone argue that the V1 system is "easier" to assemble than the V2 system?
Well they might have a bit to say about keeping it together while out on the water and disassembling at the end of the day.