What is your favorite ratchet block?

[K.C. Walker]

So, one of my winter projects is re-doing my main sheet set up. I was curious to know what people who use rachet blocks think about their set up.

Has anybody tried the new Ronstan Orbit rachet blocks? Do you like standard rachet blocks or auto rachet blocks? What size do you prefer? Harken or Ronstan? What do you think about your setup as far as holding power versus control? Do you find line chafe acceptable with your setup?

Thanks for your thoughts!

KC

[Mike Gillum]

I've used the Harken HK-019 Hexaratchet on the Mainsheet Base and Harken HK-2625 Carbo Ratchamatic on the Boom directly above the Mainsheet Base on both Thistles and now Day Sailer. The Rathamatic on the Boom only kicks in under load otherwise it acts a "regular" Harken Block unloaded. I like Hexaratchet on the Base because I can flick it on or off depending on wind strength and it keeps positive grip on the Main Sheet when tacking. This past weekend while racing the Thistle down in San Diego I dropped the Main Sheet while we were tacking and I was exchanging the Hiking Stick and Main Sheet behind my back as I crossed the boat. Because I was also vang sheeting the Main Sheet at the time it didn't "runaway" allowing me to reach back down and collect it without my crew knowing I was total idiot in the back of the boat!

[K.C. Walker]

Thanks Mike, I was wondering about going with a straight ratchet block on the centerboard trunk. I guess it's a good idea to train your crew to switch sides looking forward, just in case.

KC

[ctenidae]

In tech Support Land, there's an acronym- PEBCAC- that describes most common problems- Problem Exists Between Chair And Computer.

In sailing, I'd say it's PEBTAM- Problem Exists Between Tiller And Mainsheet

[talbot]

I use the automatic Harken ratchet on my main swivel cam, and plain bullet blocks elsewhere. Fine for my non-racing needs.

Another question, though -- anyone use ratchets on the jib sheets? That's where I have a problem in gusty winds where I want to hand-hold the lines. The main, with ratchet and 3:1 purchase (stern traveller) is no problem. The jib, with it's direct pull, is way stronger than I am.

I'm looking at Harken's 40mm carbo ratchet (matches the main swivel). Ronstan makes a slightly cheaper one in the same size. Any experience with either of these?

[K.C. Walker]

I've had reasonable success shopping on eBay through the fall for rachet blocks. I got a couple of Ronstan Smart Rachet Blocks for $20 each, new, for my jib sheets. I haven't tried them yet, though. I also picked up a Harken 40 mm carbo rachet for $20, also new. I have played with the blocks a little bit and the holding power on the Ronstans are noticeably better. I also picked up a 75 mm Harken carbo rachet new for $35 including shipping. It's been kind of fun and I think I'm set for ratchets now. Though, I think I'll keep an eye out and see if I can find a another small rachet for my Sunfish.

I agree that some additional holding power on the jib will be nice.

KC