Changing Traveler leads....cant be that hard right?

NewportNewbie · #1 (**permalink**) 10-26-2011

This is probably a newb question...I need to change my traveler leads. I though just unscrew the 3 screws, the plate will pop off, take the old leads out, drop the new ones in and screw the top plate back on. Well Doesn't seem that simple. One screw has the bolt just over the track. Once its loose, not enough room to get under there and tighten it. So I thought, ah..the other 2 must be to remove the end from the track. Got one screw loose, but the other one won't budge. So I thought I'd ask here before doing any damage....Here is a pic of where the leads attach to the traveler.

Faster · #2 (**permalink**) 10-26-2011

What exactly are you wanting to change? The line? the pulley? the cam cleat? or just move the location?

deniseO30 · #3 (**permalink**) 10-26-2011

If they won't come out, rather then break them, just cut the line and use Bowline knot to tie the new on.. won't be pretty as a loop, but it will work. Looks awful light duty for a 30ft boat imho,
gotta love Garhaurer,

yes, I know the color is on the wrong side LOL

NewportNewbie · #4 (**permalink**) 10-26-2011

Trying to change the lines. I had some new lines made with a loop so id LIKE to have that.

Faster · #5 (**permalink**) 10-26-2011

Quote:

Originally Posted by NewportNewbie

Trying to change the lines. I had some new lines made with a loop so id LIKE to have that.

..and I suppose that's the bolt that won't budge... looks like SS in aluminum, could be fun. You could try an impact driver after soaking with some PB Blaster.

Otherwise you may have to do as Denise suggested.. or end-for-end the line while it's new and do your own splice on the pin after cutting the old line out.

paulk · #6 (**permalink**) 10-26-2011

Each of the three machine screws seems to be different, so at least two of them have probably been replaced by the Previous Owner. He likely neglected to bed them so they wouldn't slowly corrode into permanent lumps in the aluminum. Good luck. Patience and a lot of penetrating oil may help.

rugosa · #7 (**permalink**) 10-27-2011

Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance - every owner should develop regularly scheduled maintenance for EVERYTHING on their boat, especially in salt water locations. Weekly, monthly, quarterly, half yearly, annual. It's easier to do with a new boat when you don't need to be concerned about previous owner neglect. Unfortunately with older boats it is all too often a game of catch up.

Pics look like someone has replaced Garhaurer cam with Harken. Tie or splice new line on for now to get going, plan system removal and overhaul over the winter, or a new traveller system in the future.