Facnor LS180

[silversailor]

My 2006 Hanse 370 came equipped with a Facnor LS180 furler that I have never been able to get to work right. Furling requires a lot of effort no matter how big the sail or how windy the conditions. Facnor tells me it's all in the angle that the furling line leads off of the spool. I have adjusted that to their specs (and every other angle) with no better results. Any suggestions?

Many thanks,

Silversailor
2006 Hanse 370e, hull #9
South Haven, MI

[Brion Toss]

Hi,
The furler itself is only one contributor to easy furling, and unless there's something wrong with the installation it's not likely to be at the root of your problem. If the angle off the drum (90 degrees) is correct, the next detail is to get the first lead block as far away from the drum as practicable, to mimimize fleet angle. The next detail is to have roller-bearing lead blocks, properly aligned, all the way back, and a ratchet block, like Harken's 187 clamped to the pushpit. Next is to keep a strain on the furling line when you are setting the sail. This is a big one, as it causes the furler turns to go on tight, so they don't moosh down and stick when you go to furl. Good backstay tension is another increment.
And of course, improper installation could be a factor. If the swivel is too low, or the halyard badly-led, or the foil-to-drum connection bad, or bushings missing, all of which I see regularly, then the unit won't work well.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss

[silversailor]

Brian,

My boats on the hard right now but should be launched shortly. Can I send you pics of the crucial points for your review and comment?

Thanks.

Silversailor