[C320-list] Rope Clutches

[Jeff Hare]

I would call Garhauer Marine first 1-909-985-9993. They'll let you know your options. They might just send you new springs or provide other guidance.

I'd suggest that you remove the line, open the clutch handle all the way back, lift the inner jam part and inspect/clean the jamming teeth. You might find that they have excess line fuzz/debris built up in the teeth. I don't believe there's any "tightening" of them to be done, but maybe you have a damaged spring?

Another option may have to do with the type of line you're running through those two cleats. If it's newer line, perhaps it's smaller than the cleat was intended for or older line that is frequently cleated in exactly the same place (like halyards). Older line can get slippery or worn if frequently cleated in the same spot. In that case, then try shortening the halyard a small amount by clipping off a foot of line at the far end clipped to the sail.  This is generally a good idea from time to time over the life of the line anyway since it can help reposition the section of line that sits on the mast head sheaves and clutches.

Also, (perennial reminder to those with Charleston/US Spar masts), loosen all the lines that run through your mast blocks unscrew those mast step turning-blocks, apply a little Tef-Gel anticorrosion grease and screw them back in. When they're screwed in all the way and stop, unscrew them one full turn so that they swivel freely and don't bind.

I recall replacing a spring once, but mostly I clean the teeth every few years.

-Jeff Hare

-----Original Message-----
From: C320-list <c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com> On Behalf Of SARA SCHROEDER
Sent: Monday, September 20, 2021 11:18 PM
To: c320-list at lists.catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Rope Clutches

I have two rope clutches on my 2000 C320 that are slipping. Thank you to those who identified the source for replacing them. I called and while they are "only" $60 each my gut says "replace them all."  After doing the math I was chatting with a C360 owner and he said he has figured out how to open up his 1999 C360 clutches and tighten them up.  Has anyone done this?  If so, do you have simple instructions?  They couldn't manage to get those clutches any closer together!!

Sara 
Wandering Star
2000 / #707