Opinions on Roller Furling

johnrobinson · Crew Joined: 09 Jul 2006 Posts: 135 Location: Seattle

I'm about to replace all of my 20-year old standing rigging and want to replace the roller-furler at the same time. I presently have a "North" made by Harkin. I'm looking at the Profurl LC42 or the Schaefer 3100 as a replacement. Anyone have any opinions about these two brands/models; ease of use, durability, repairs? Thanks.

Regards, John Robinson, s/v Crossings, 43T Cutter, Seattle

mitchk · Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2008 6:51 am Post subject: Roller Furling

I have owned Profurl on a previous boat and Harken on my current boat. The Profurl seemed to work much easier and smoother, could just be these 2 units, could be sheet routing issues, could be the Harken is older? dont know but I have several friends that have replaced with Profurl and all are very happy with them.

laughingbuddha · Posted: Mon Jun 16, 2008 6:57 am Post subject:

John -
We have had a profurl for nearly 20 years[HC 41T] - pretty good service and have rebuilt it only twice (so far).
Were I to buy new - I'd go for the Kiwi-Built "ReefRite." Graham is a very competent engineer and has incorporated some very nice features in it - like for starters -- standard sized bearings -- useful if in out of the way places.

Profurl has a few quirks - like you can't relube - without disassembly. Only one bearing where you might better served with 2 - but they save production costs.
Be sure and get twin foil - may not ever use it - but when you want it its very dear to replace.
Cheers - Jim

charles · Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2008 4:51 am Post subject:

I just installed a Spin-tec 2000 on my 38T and love it. Fewer moving parts, very clean assembly and looks with dual foil. Maintenance free and a lifetime warranty. Cost was almost half the others for the same size rig. Take a look at http://www.spin-tec.com/

Charles
s/v Seagate
Chula Vista Ca.