What's blocking it from sliding forward?

Often, it's because dirt and gunk can collect under the track if it's deck mounted.
If mounted on a teak toe rail, I just spent time scraping out old Cetol that had accumulated from the PO not taping off the track.

 

What's blocking it from sliding forward?

Often, it's because dirt and gunk can collect under the track if it's deck mounted.
If mounted on a teak toe rail, I just spent time scraping out old Cetol that had accumulated from the PO not taping off the track.

We're not sure what's blocking it. Dirt and gunk is certainly a possibility. It's not mounted on a teak toe rail, so it's definitely not Cetol, but I would think the same method would apply.

How did you scrape out the old Cetol? I'm picturing acetone and a handful of qtips, but that probably wouldn't be good enough.

 

To me, sounds like it is time to get some line control style cars, maybe new tracks etc. Makes playing with rolerfurled head sails MUCH easier. All it takes is a pull on a line, vs going forward, pulling a pin up, unscrewing etc to get the carr to move forward. And they have bearings vs friction to ease the moving process.

Marty

 

To me, sounds like it is time to get some line control style cars, maybe new tracks etc. Makes playing with rolerfurled head sails MUCH easier. All it takes is a pull on a line, vs going forward, pulling a pin up, unscrewing etc to get the carr to move forward. And they have bearings vs friction to ease the moving process.

Marty

Although you have been given some good advise on finding out why you current system is not working that all seems pretty obvious. Lie down on deck, preferably at the dock, and look.

Marty's suggestion is also very good. Garhauer makes a great system and it is relatively inexpensive and a great sailing too. You do have to find out what is stopping the car first though.

 

I would check the screw heads on the track. One could have backed out a bit and would stop the car from moving. I have seen cars that the pin does not come up enough to allow the car to slide easily along the track, as well. Though unlikely, someone could also have replaced a car with the wrong size for your track. Keeping those cars moving freely should be part of your regular maintenance.

 

Hey,

I would use sailkote, a hammer, and an inspection of the track. Spray the track with Sailkote, move the car forward. When it hits, back it up and see why it won't move forward. Then clean, beat down, or otherwise clear the obstruction, and continue. Some gentle taps with the hammer on the base of the car may help too.

Good luck,
Barry

 

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Mr. Cthoops took some Sailkote, a hammer, and a punch to the track. Some careful tapping and cleaning, and voila. The car moves all of the way forward.

We were very pleased to find that our theory on the incessant flapping of the jib held true. Once we were able to move the car forward enough, the flapping stopped and we could actually finally use the jib.

Thanks again.

 

Ah, the sweet feeling of success!
Congrats on a job well done.

Barry