Athena 38: Replacing Torlon Balls on Athena 38

[Capnkal]

Hello CF ,
Having a hard time raising the mainsail, wondering if anyone has had experience replacing the ballbearings in the batten cars on these fp cats.
I think they are torlon, but any help re size, aquisition, or info on make of the batten cars appreciated. There is nothing on the cars themselves indicating their make; think they are original, 1998. If you have some know how on the subject, I'd love to hear from you. Thanks very much in advance. K

[Cotemar]

Fountaine Pajot uses Z Spars Masts - www.zsparsuk.com & www.usspars.com

[Dragon Lady]

Are they jamming up or sticking?
I had difficulty raising the main on my Lavezzi as it turned out someone had installed too large diameter halyard line.
I also replaced the block on the headboard and it now works fine, so might be worth checking.

[Capnkal]

Thank you. A new block recently installed hasn't helped, halyard is size appropriate. I am hopeful that when I install the 2.5 sets of torlon balls from z-spar this vessel takes, I'll resume being able to raise the main. According to some, torlon ball bearings should be changed every 4 yrs or so, and the batten cars rinsed with fresh water every other use. Mine are 15 yrs old & while I do rinse the rig often, specifically hosing the batten cars has not been part of the regimen till now. My application of lube was a mistake too, and definetly hastened the balls loosing their functionality. I hear only fresh water or mild soap & water is acceptable. Lubes appear to increase functionality initially but within a week or so a film develops that further impedes progress & most importantly, ADDS to the problem. Certain lubes actually swell the torlon and cause the balls to go out of round. Thank you kindly for your comment, I will update after installation.

[timelesspassage]

I have a 1999 Athena 38 located in the BVI. I have not had your issue. I have 5 Harken Cars.

[mikefp60]

They are expensive and a pain to change. You will need the plastic cartridge handle to load them. I have them and would loan them if we are anywhere near. My boat is in st Lucia.

Mike
S/V Vivo

[Capnkal]

Hello again,
Have successfully replaced the torlon balls & raising main is now quite a bit easier. Z spar was not particularly easy to deal with, I had to order more 3-3.5 packages total, to complete the job . Despite asking them to send the parts to my mailing address, they sent the torlon balls twice to my billing address. We may try harken batten cars in the future, but for now, all's well.
Cheers all & thanks for your input.

[DtM]

Well done.

Enjoy the easier life