Seldén Mast has introduced its Rig Tension Car for dinghy jib halyard tension systems. The fitting is intended as an alternative to traditional hook and block arrangements by combining both functions into a single component.
The Rig Tension Car, which is designed for use with Seldén aluminium dinghy spars, incorporates a 25mm high-load stainless steel ball-bearing sheave with an integrated halyard hook. The arrangement reduces the number of separate components in the system and is intended to lower friction during operation.
Unlike conventional free-floating hook systems, the Rig Tension Car slides directly within the mainsail track and is retained at the rear of the mast. This means the fitting remains attached during rigging and reduces the chance of parts moving around inside the boat or coming into contact with the spar when not under load.
To fit the system, the slug is inserted through the jib halyard exit slot below the gooseneck and moved down the track. The halyard can then be attached with one hand, which simplifies part of the setup process.
The fitting uses a low-friction slide and ball-bearing sheave designed to reduce resistance when applying rig tension. An integrated indent also corresponds with calibration marks on the mast, allowing repeatable rig settings.
A nylon slide pad separates contact surfaces and reduces metal-to-metal contact with the mast. It is designed to protect the mast’s anodised finish and reduce wear commonly associated with traditional hook and block systems. The tensioning line or wire can also be removed without taking out pins or bolts, allowing the mast to be unstepped without dismantling the fitting.
The Rig Tension Car includes a becket that allows the first purchase of the tension system to be configured in either a 2:1 or 3:1 arrangement, depending on class requirements or user preference. The design of this fitting combines functions that are often handled by separate components, thereby reducing the number of parts used in the system.
The system is designed for use with all Seldén aluminium dinghy mast sections except aluminium mast section 2420. It is also intended to fit many spars from other manufacturers.
The Rig Tension Car is available through the Seldén Dinghy Store and other dinghy dealers, with a retail price of £41.18 including VAT.
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