Recommendations for h18 jib blocks.

Looking for any good recommendations for replacement jib blocks that wont quite break the bank

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Not sure what you would consider “breaks the bank.” You really can’t go wrong with Harken hexaratchet or autoratchet blocks. Yes they are a little pricey, but they will literally last decades and should do so without issue. They work very well and were the standard on Hobie 18’s towards the end of production.

Another option would be Oxen blocks, but they are expensive by most standards and require more maintenance and are more prone to failure.

I’m sure Ronstan has some decent offerings as well, but I suspect they are going to be similarly priced to the Harken blocks.

sm

I really like my Oxen blocks, simple to use and the don't get tangled up nearly as often as the standard blocks. They're also easier for an inexperienced crew to operate as opposed to the jam cleat on the standard blocks. That said, they're $300 each new, whereas the standard blocks can typically be found for $50 each on ebay.

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Mike

'79 H18 standard 'Rocketman II' sail #14921 RIP
'78 H18 (unnamed) sail #14921
'08 H16 sail #114312
'97 H21SC sail #238

Hi, We use Ronstan auto ratchets. Part number RF56130.
They are light and strong and great in light wind.
I hope this helps.

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John Forbes
Hobie 18 Reimagined
Sail # 490
Boat name: 18@heart
http://www.hobie18.fun
https://www.facebook.com/Hobie18catamaran/

I have the Oxen blocks. Much easier to trim the jib when you're sitting at the front of your wing, or when trapezing.

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Rick Wattengel
H18 "Puka-Luka"
Fleet 119-Lake Erie's Finest

I used Oxen blocks for many years but ultimately switched back to “standard” blocks.

Downsides I found to the Oxen blocks:
1) Can not be sheeted as tight. Due to the design of the mechanism, the block will ease very slightly from the position you pull it to. Not really a big deal for recreational sailing, but for racing, you need to be able to pull the jib in all the way and want the sheet to stay where you pull it.

2) Pull to release design can make it difficult to un-cleat under load.

3) Blocks have a tendency to re-cleat unintentionally. Anytime the sheet is moved, you are either going to cleat or uncleat the line whether you mean to or not.

4) The mechanism has a nasty habit of failing at the worst time, and when it does, the blocks will only cleat, not un-cleat. It is a good idea to have these blocks serviced periodically and consider carrying a knife on board so you can cut the sheet in the event the block locks up.

sm

I'll agree with SM's comments and should have mentioned that I'm not racing. I also sail solo about 50% of the time and will except the downside of the blocks over the ease of use. My wife likes them too. I will have periodic service done as recommended.

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Rick Wattengel
H18 "Puka-Luka"
Fleet 119-Lake Erie's Finest

Hi Cowboy,

Here is a YouTube video that shows our Ronstan auto ratchet jib blocks in action.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=LPddDLZpsFg

There are also other YouTube videos of our boat where you can see boat setup. Search GONZO HOBIE 18 in YouTube search bar and click on the 18 ⭕️ for full library of our videos.

Enjoy

_________________
John Forbes
Hobie 18 Reimagined
Sail # 490
Boat name: 18@heart
http://www.hobie18.fun
https://www.facebook.com/Hobie18catamaran/