Battcar Manufacturer?

[Katmando]

Hi All,
Just finished a trip from Florida down to Trinidad, nonstop solo. No fun at all, but I made it in about 16 days. Anyway, a couple of things broke and I'm repairing now. I'm having trouble figuring out who makes my Battcar system for the Main. Does anyone know who makes it or know the easiest way for me to figure it out? Also, the bearings aren't captive, found out the hard way, so how do I get the car on the mast full of bearings?

Thanks so much,
Russ
S/V Moon Shadow

[djmarchand]

Harken makes the Battcar system. And yes when the car comes off of the track all of the little balls fall out. Been there, done that. Order enough balls and spares to fix yours from one of Harken's dealers or a local sailmaker.

David

[SailFastTri]

There should be a removable short section of track near the mast base end. Move the car you want to replace onto that section and then remove the section with the car attached. When replacing, put the section in place with the car and slide the car onto the main track.

I've never tried it, but someone told me a trick to keeping the balls under control while loading them is to use shave cream. Then you can easily wash it out with a hose later.

[Katmando]

That's great information and advice! Thanks guys. Now, just need to track down which Harken model it is. I'll check out the sail loft on Monday here in Chagauramas.

Thanks again!
Russ

[senormechanico]

Ronstan purchased Frederiksen several years ago.

Check them as well if your hardware isn't Harken.

Ronstan-Frederiksen-Batten-Blocks-Andersen Winches-Sailtek - Deck Hardware

[Tempo Spars]

That car does not look like a Harken or Frederiksen / Ronstan.

If it's a Fountaine then I think it's a Sparcraft mast and they make their own Batt cars. All balls are standard sizes, those are probably 5/16" and can be bought from any Chandler or rigger.

You can see if they have a ball loader as this will help get them back on the mast.

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Roland.