[arf145]

Dumb question: how do single line furlers work? Do they really have just a single line coming out, not continuous like my old Hood unit? How do you change direction? Spring loaded?

 

[sailingfool]

Dumb question: how do single line furlers work? Do they really have just a single line coming out, not continuous like my old Hood unit? How do you change direction? Spring loaded?

The line is to furl (roll) the sail, and is then secured to keep the sail furled. If the furling line is released, pulling on a jib sheet unfurls the sail - usually the wind takes over that process once a feet few are exposed.

I'm not sure how the single line setup clutches the line at the base of the furling unit, but I like the certainty that in any breeze the single line furler will stay furled, subject to the breaking strength of the line. If the sail is furled tightly, that setup should be safe through most any conditions.

 

[knothead]

Sailingfool is right. Pull the furling line to roll the sail up and pull the sheet to unfurl. Tie off the furling line and the sail stops unrolling.
Then you're reefed.
Most systems have the line running through a hole somewhere on the drum or in one of the flanges and then a stopper knot is tied in the end.
It's a good idea to tie a clove hitch around the drum before you run the bitter end through the hole so that you never pull directly on the stopper knot.

 

[jrd22]

That's a good idea that I've never heard of before, Knot. Thanks!

 

[jmolan]

I ws going to upload a photo, but I keep getting "file failed"

Are you referring to a continuous line furler?

like this?

Furlers | Colligo Marine

I use this and love it. But it sounds different than you are describing.

 

[arf145]

OK, thanks all--I get it now.