Seeking Advice for E38-200 Traveler Replacement

[hlurie]

Our 1991 E38-200 (Sel De Mer, Hull #1) is in need of a replacement of the traveler, including blocks and cars. We're aiming to replace the fiddle block and mainsheet blocks as well. We're the 2nd owner since 1991, and am fairly certain our current equipment has never been replaced.

Our primary question is whether we should retain the existing track, and just replace the above hardware or try to rebuild the entire system?

We are avid cruisers and occasional racers, and although we've not had many problems with the existing rig, we're looking to improve what seems to our eyes an old and possibly soon-to-fail rig.

Any recs on cordage length and diameter, preferred blocks and cars are most welcomed. Photos attached.

 

[Loren Beach]

Your Harken traveler looks a lot like the high quality Harken traveler that EY installed on our '88 Olson.
Ours was still working fine, but was getting kind of used and nicked up some, so I replaced it during our re-fit in 2021. New Harken, and the new series has a much better sheave system for the controls (IMHO).
Link to our replacement:

O34 - Traveler Controls, improved purchase

There is regular discussion here on traveler controls and how much "purchase" is sufficient. Stock setup on the 0-34 was a three part purchase on each side, with the free end cleated off to a cam cleat on the inside of each cockpit combing, just...

ericsonyachts.org

If you are considering also upgrading the main sheet block scheme to all-ball-bearing one from Harken or Garhauer, do so.
You have a main sheet system with more blocks and friction points than does our boat, and reduction of drag is important.

 

[hlurie]

Your Harken traveler looks a lot like the high quality Harken traveler that EY installed on our '88 Olson.
Ours was still working fine, but was getting kind of used and nicked up some, so I replaced it during our re-fit in 2021. New Harken, and the new series has a much better sheave system for the controls (IMHO).
Link to our replacement:

O34 - Traveler Controls, improved purchase

There is regular discussion here on traveler controls and how much "purchase" is sufficient. Stock setup on the 0-34 was a three part purchase on each side, with the free end cleated off to a cam cleat on the inside of each cockpit combing, just...

ericsonyachts.org

If you are considering also upgrading the main sheet block scheme to all-ball-bearing one from Harken or Garhauer, do so.
You have a main sheet system with more blocks and friction points than does our boat, and reduction of drag is important.

Thanks for your insights, Loren Beach

 

[Bolo]

Not the same boat (mine is an E32-3) but I did a traveler upgrade not too long ago using Harken. Found their gear to be reliable and they had excellent tech support. I’ve spoken to Harken reps at the Annapolis boat shows and they were very knowledgeable. Did a blog on my upgrade which might be helpful to you in some ways.

E32-3 - Mainsheet Traveler Upgrade

A few words first… When I read any “How To” article on-line I’m always cautious about the information especially if it’s from a “non-professional”…..like me. I’m just a photographer who really likes sailing and repairing / upgrading his boat. So...

ericsonyachts.org

 

[hlurie]

Not the same boat (mine is an E32-3) but I did a traveler upgrade not too long ago using Harken. Found their gear to be reliable and they had excellent tech support. I’ve spoken to Harken reps at the Annapolis boat shows and they were very knowledgeable. Did a blog on my upgrade which might be helpful to you in some ways.

E32-3 - Mainsheet Traveler Upgrade

A few words first… When I read any “How To” article on-line I’m always cautious about the information especially if it’s from a “non-professional”…..like me. I’m just a photographer who really likes sailing and repairing / upgrading his boat. So...

ericsonyachts.org

Thanks very much Bob S.

 

[Guy Stevens]

That traveler car should have replacement bearings available for it, and if the track is not visibly damaged, I would just get new bearings, and clean everything really well. If the track is not damaged you could get a new car and new sheaves for both the car and the traveler end blocks.
The car adjustment blocks are damaged beyond repair and would need to be replaced. I don't know if the new style fits the old cars, call Harken and ask. If you have to replace the track to use the new cars, I would go with a new Garhauer setup. Cheaper, and just as good.


I would replace that main sheet block set with a ball bearing one from Garhauer.