I really do feel that work is an embuggerance to pleasure, particularly of the sailing kind!!
As for a heavy block...I have had the same thing and I don't like it one bit. We are about to mount a Wichard low friction ring on a Dyneema strop instead of the block on a Dyneema strop. I'm not sure how well it will work, but this use fits the description: High load, limited travel. That doesn't completely solve the issue but it reduces the weight by about 80% and in a nicer form factor. You might also be able to seize the bottom end of the strop tight to something at the bottom of the furler to keep it upright. See if you can get some Dyneema chafe sleeve and put it over the strop. It is amazingly resistant stuff.
If you get spare time at work here's a nice thread on knots and chafe and splices to keep you happy - it's long!
http://forums.sailinganarchy.com/ind...0#entry4510500