Best way to tighten closed body turnbuckles

[Survivor]

The turnbuckles on my Catalina 27 are the closed body type with the small hole in the middle of the body. Outside of a vice-grip that leaves scratches, what do you suggest for turning them? Is there something that will fit in that small hole that will not bend?

Harris

[BigZ]

I've used an allen wrench with good results.

[Boasun]

Originally Posted by BigZ

I've used an allen wrench with good results.

Or a Phillips screw driver... they come in various sizes and you can find one that will closely fit that hole.

[Glen53]

You can use the ice pick after you chipped off enough ice for the martini. Works on my 25

[Omatako]

If they're too tight to turn with a screwdriver through the hole, they're starting to display the reason why they're not as good as open bottle screws.

[johnnyandjebus]

Originally Posted by Survivor

The turnbuckles on my Catalina 27 are the closed body type with the small hole in the middle of the body. Outside of a vice-grip that leaves scratches, what do you suggest for turning them? Is there something that will fit in that small hole that will not bend?

Harris

I use a hole punch, about 8 inches long and tapered for 1/2 it's length. Works great.


John

[WanderingStar]

Marlinspike.

[SJ34]

I like the hole punch. Spray with Aerokroil or PB Blaster and allow to soak before starting. Once the threads gall it's too late (if ss).

[SEMIJim]

Originally Posted by SJ34

I like the hole punch. Spray with Aerokroil or PB Blaster and allow to soak before starting. Once the threads gall it's too late (if ss).

+1!

Then, after you get 'em loose, keep 'em lubricated and protected with either LanoCote or Star brite Snap & Zipper Lubricant. They're both lanolin-based. The LanoCote is much thicker, and probably more appropriate for saltwater environments. The Star brite product is thinner, and, I'm told by other sailors, sufficient for freshwater boats.

Jim