Morning Folks:

I am thinking about getting spinlocks for my H-16 & H-18. I want to use the spinlock on my main only....at this point in time. Only problem is, I am not sure they will uncleat in light air conditions.

Anybody out there have any experience----GOOD OR BAD----with using Spinlocks on their H-16 or H-18?

It looks like a great product.....but my basment is getting full from all of the "looks like a great product, but doesn't work" purchases I have made over the years.

Let me hear from you!

Regards,


Paul
Milwaukee, WI

Hey Paul -

What's the application? The spinlock works great on a spinnaker halyard, but I don't think I'd use it for anything else. Every spinlock I've laid hands on is great for that use, light or heavy air. Make sure you get the one with the alloy jaws and not the plastic one. I'm sure you can find them here on the Catsailor on-line store.

And let us know how it works out for you!

I've been using a Spinlock (with alloy jaws) on my 18Sq for at least two years, I guess it's been.

I'm well pleased with mine. I don't think Spinlocks will last if not well cared for, so don't drag it about, get sand in it, or forget to rinse after sailing.

But I like my Spinlock. My husband got one for his birthday for his Square and he likes his Spinlock too...

sea ya
tami

John,

Can you get the small spinlocks with alloy jaws? I think I've only seen plastic jawed versions in my local marine store.

The plastic ones work OK for a while but then groove up and stop gripping.

Chris.

The aluminum jaws come standard on all spinlocks. If you get a plastic jaw then you got one from some pretty old stock.

Not exactly true. The original spinlocks had a plastic upper and lower jaw. The newer spinlocks have an alloy top jaw but still have a plastic bottom jaw that wears out. I've found my Spinlocks to last at most 1 year before breaking.

I do not recommend them for Mainsheets. Some people like them but most switch back to regular cleats.

Mike Hill
www.stlouiscats.com

I agree with Mike 100% here. I blew up a brand new spinlock used for my spin halyard (alloy). Both jaws need to be alloy, and I really wish they would make them that way.

I wouldn't go out of your way to replace your mainsheet cleat with a spinlock, it's not going to buy you anything.

I tried a spinlock on my Hobie 17 main two years ago. Took it off after two races. It would not release in all positions or angles from the wing. Also fouled easily. Went back to the standard Harken.

Caleb Tarleton

if you have a Harken cleat on your mainsheet, then as a cheaper alternative to experimenting with a spinlock on the main sheet try the "Extreme Angle Fairlead" (see the Harken website). This lets you cleat and uncleat when the sheet is up to 90 degrees from the entrance to the cleat. A little over $12 plus tax.

Chris.

Thanks Chris. The Harken fairlead 328 at $10.55 looks like the answer for my 150. The newer Carbo Ratchamatics appear to have a similar fairlead. Will buy one today, and use in the race tonight.

Caleb

Thought I would give you an update on what I learned: most people who have tried spinlocks on their main....have abandoned them. Most common causes: problems getting the right type of rope to work consistenly; broke early or prematurely; wore out prematurely; failure to release or hold predictably.

Enought said? I am going to pass on them for now.