|
 |
|
The STRONG® Sail Track and Slide System is a high-performance,
low friction mainsail track and slide system built to handle
the increased loads and demands of today's full batten
mainsails. When installed, the mainsail will rise easily
and drop the instant the halyard is released.
Product Overview
The System consists of the ultra low friction, durable
STRONG® Track and an "owner-defined" selection
of matched slides and batten receptacles designed for
smooth, long lasting operation. The System is priced
on a per-foot basis and shipped via UPS, ready to install.
The STRONG® Track System offers minimal stack height,
less weight aloft and low friction performance rivaling
systems costing more than twice as much.
Sail Track Description
STRONG® Track is machined to size from UHMW-PE.
This material has a very low coefficient of friction
and is impact, abrasion and wear resistant. The UHMW-PE
is not affected by saltwater and is UV stable. It is
available in seemless lengths to 65 feet and can be installed
without going aloft or without drilling holes in the
mast.
Each track shape is matched to each vessel's mast. The
system will work with flat or round internal; grooves
as well as external track.
|
External
Track - Flat
|
Internal
Track - Flat
|
Internal
Round - Round
|
|
|
|
|
Slides and Fittings Description
STRONG® Slides are finished to a smooth, low-friction
surface, eliminating any sharp edges which can cause
conventional slides to bind. They are available in three
standard sizes…headboard slide (3”), reef
or batten slide (2”) and intermediate slide (approx.
1”).
STRONG® Batten Receptacles are available in two
sizes and accept round and flat battens. They attach
to a universal joint and 10mm stud. The 10mm stud threads
into the Batten Receptacle and the universal joint connects
to the 2” slide with a clevis pin and ring. This “fitting” rotates
freely when the mainsail is raised and lowered. The universal
joint and stud are also designed to fit receptacles made
by competitive manufacturers. This allows the vessel
owner to use existing receptacles if preferred.
Installation Overview
The top of the mast gate should be at least 10” above
the gooseneck and be three inches long. This is necessary
as the Tides Marine track needs sufficient room to bend/curve
into the mast gate while clearing the gooseneck hardware
/ boom.
If your installation is hampered because the mast gate
is too close to the gooseneck (or too short), you may
have to extend the mast gate one to three inches up the
mast using a small grinder / Dremel tool. When you are
finished enlarging the mast gate, make certain to file
the freshly cut edges smooth using a small rasp or file.
In most cases, the Tides track should slide smoothly
into the mast gate and up the mast. If you think a lubricant
is needed, use only water or water combined with a very
small amount of liquid detergent. Other lubricants such
as WD-40 can leave a residue on the track/mast which
can collect dirt, dust and debris.
Contact or Chat with Us to order your Strong Track System or to learn
how to retrofit your existing main.
Text and images courtesy of Tides Marine.
|
|
|
| If you need immediate
assistance finding the appropriate Bluewater Cruising Sails for
your sailboat please do not hesitate to call us, our sail consultants
are ready to help you. |
