Seldén Mast introduces new Rig Tension Car for dinghy jib halyard systems
by Seldén Mast 22 Jun 09:00 BST
Seldén Mast introduces new Rig Tension Car for dinghy jib halyard systems © Seldén Mast
Seldén Mast has launched a new Rig Tension Car, a practical and cost-effective upgrade for dinghy jib halyard tension systems that replaces the traditional hook and block arrangement with a single, integrated fitting.
Designed for use on Seldén aluminium dinghy spars, the new car incorporates a 25mm high-load stainless steel ball-bearing sheave combined with a halyard hook, reducing both friction and complexity while improving ease of use on the water.
Unlike conventional free-floating hook systems, the Rig Tension Car slides directly in the mainsail track and is retained on the back of the mast. This ensures the car is always to hand during rigging and eliminates the risk of components being lost in the boat or damaging the spar when not under load.
Engaging the car is straightforward: the slug is inserted at the jib halyard exit slot below the gooseneck and slid down the track. The halyard can then be hooked on with one hand, simplifying set-up compared with traditional loose hooks and blocks.
The reduction in friction provided by the low friction slide and ball-bearing sheave makes it noticeably easier to apply rig tension. An integrated indent aligns with calibration marks on the mast, allowing sailors to repeat accurate rig settings with confidence.
A nylon slide pad prevents metal-to-metal contact, protecting the mast's anodised finish and eliminating the gradual wear commonly associated with hook and block systems. The tensioning line or wire can be removed from the car without removing pins or bolts, allowing the mast to be un-stepped quickly and easily.
The Rig Tension Car also incorporates a becket, allowing the first purchase of the tension system to be configured as either 2:1 or 3:1 depending on class or sailor preference. By combining two components into one, the new system is lighter, simpler and more affordable than many existing alternatives.
The Seldén Rig Tension Car is priced at £41.18 inc VAT and is available now through all leading dinghy dealers and direct from the Seldén Dinghy Store at dinghy.seldenmast.com/products/rig-tension-car
The fitting is designed to suit all Seldén aluminium dinghy mast sections except 2420, and will also fit most other manufacturers spars.