Genoa Car Blocks
This is something that has worked well.
My original Schaefer car blocks were worn out and binding. 42 years of use and weathering will do that. I also disliked the friction clamp. It slips and sometimes is hard to free-up for adjustment.
A fellow Tanzer owner suggested these Garhauer blocks. They accommodate the 1/2 genoa sheets that work well with my Barton self-tailers. Also, the original Schaefer genoa lead car blocks are twice as expensive.( ~ $110 USD).
Because it uses a stop pin instead of friction, you will need to drill holes.
These are really positive locking: no slipping. They are also much easier to move.
I drilled 9/32 holes between the mounting screws to accommodate the 1/4 locking pin.
I was content with a stop hole halfway between each pair of mounting screws.
Some of you may want more more stops. Have fun!
Drilling the holes will be easier if you use a pilot hole and center punch.
A variable speed drill is recommended. Since you will be drilling metal, a slower speed is recommended. A little oil will also help.
-Center punch your hole locations.
-Then drill a 3/16 hole about 3/16 to 1/4 inch deep.
-Finish it off with a 9/32 inch hole until you get a a shoulder on the hole to stop the car.
Be sure to use a sharp drill as the drill will tend to wander off center.
Drill until you have a full diameter hole with a shoulder.
Drill a test hole at the end of your rail to see what works before drilling the remainder.
If you can’t keep the holes centered, go to a 5/16 drill.
You know it is deep enough when the car doesn’t jump over the stop hole.
In the photos, you will also see a self tailing winch cap.
You can get these from West Marine. (On another post.)
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| length: | 5-1/2 | width: | 3-1/2 |
| weight: | 12 oz. | shackle: | |
sheave diameter: 2-5/8
Fits 1" t-track
$56.00 USD
The Garhauer blocks are stainless steel and larger to accommodate 1/2 lines
Drill holes just deep enough to make a shoulder and stop surface.
On the Left is the original Shaefer block; Garhauer on right. You may want to keep you Schaefers for Spinnaker rigging. Both can be on the rails.
Note that the block stands taller on the rails. Hopefully rope burns on the gelcoat will be less likely.
Switching to 1/2 genoa sheets keep the line from overlapping and binding.
The self-tailer really works as advertised with the 1/2 line. The Barton self-tailer has helped me greatly when sailing solo in stronger winds. The sheet press upward on the self-tailing cap and holds as tightly as a jam cleat. West Marine sells them.
Half inch lines are also much easier on hands. Three wraps and the tailer grabs. To release just unwrap one wrap-around.
