When I upgraded to the 6:1, I found that the bottom block wouldn't fit in the traveler and I had to add the shackle......Do I need to upgrade my traveler?

I'd really be happy with some of these, if I could find them anywhere. I could buy the standard "D shackles" ....... was hoping to just find the cheap stamped ones and buy a couple spares.

The problem is that I haven't been able to find them. Oh well. I guess I'll just order some of the standard D-Shackles. What's $16 for a couple.

The older, larger Harkens have a post that's a bit too wide for the top plate of the traveller car. Either grind a flat on either side of the post (doesn't take much), or open up the "ears" on the top plate a bit with a couple of pairs of pliers.

Make it fit. You do not want a shackle on the lower end of the main sheet.

This is what comes with the boat on the top:

fyi - for us Mongo's and heavy load sailors , specify the "S" hooks with a closed (welded) eyelet. Have never had one fail.

Sail fast, Tom G

What Matt said. Just use a clevis pin / ring ding on the lower block. Open the ears of the traveler.

As for the top, Hobie sells (or at least used to sell) shackles that come with a quick-release pin that is held on with a captive wire. There is a second pin the runs through the shackle to keep it attached to the boom. Basically, all you do is install the shackle once on the boom, then each time you rig the boat, you use the quickie pin to attach the top block.

One of the best features of this system is that you can get the blocks off the boom very quickly when you hit the beach. Depending on the wind and water conditions, this can be a lifesaver (figuratively speaking).

I've been using this setup since 1997. I have never seen or heard of one of these failing.

And don't forget, ALWAYS tape ALL of your ring dings.

Hope this helps.

Mike