Cleaning mainsail rail

trantor12020 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-04-2008

I've Selden mast on my H326. I would like to clean the mainsail slide slot (rail?) so that my mains can be raise and lowered fast & smooth. Instead of using a sail slug/slide with small piece of clothe, is there a ready tools for me to clean the slide slot. What is it call ?

sailingdog · #2 (**permalink**) 03-04-2008

What I recommend is a folded over piece of scotchbrite scrubber sponge, with the scotchbright side out. You can usually fold it over and have the fold sit inside the sailtrack, and then hoist it with a messenger line attached and run it up and down the track a few times.

SailorMitch · #3 (**permalink**) 03-04-2008

After you clean the slot, also lubricate the slides themselves and as far up the track as you can reach with a dry lubricant like Sailkote. Reapply as necessary to keep the friction down.

trantor12020 · #4 (**permalink**) 03-05-2008

SD - thanks! never thought of scotchbrite though I have it onboard.
SM - yes I'll use Sailkote on the slugs after cleaning the rail.

PBzeer · #5 (**permalink**) 03-05-2008

With a full batten main (which most Hunters have unless they are in mast furling) there will be a tendency to hang up on the slugs where the battens are.