You might find that though the stainless are a bit more expensive, they will provide longer service.
Advantages. Well, the aluminum blocks are lighter, the stainless blocks heavier. In a 40' catamaran I would be looking more at sheave construction than body construction.
Personally I would recommend ball bearing blocks all around. The loads on the running gear on a cat can be pretty heavy. ball bearing blocks are certainely worth it. Easier line handling makes for a more fun sail. You might want to check out Garhauer to. They have some really good blocks and have used them in several re-rigs. They are cheaper than Schaeffer or Harken.
|