Travelers and Tracks

The sail-trim sliding system is the heart of the sail plan. When the mainsail jams or the genoa fails to tack smoothly, the problem often lies in the combination between the worn condition of the track and the choice of traveler car. A car with Torlon or Delrin balls offers superior sliding performance compared to slide-friction models, but requires careful maintenance to prevent salt buildup that can block the balls themselves.

Choosing the correct traveler car depends not only on the boat's size, but on the working load it will have to bear. It is necessary to evaluate the breaking load (BL) and the Safe Working Load (SWL) declared by the manufacturer. An undersized car risks deforming under a gust, compromising the maneuver and permanently damaging the track below.

Always verify the compatibility of the track profile. There are profiles specific to each yard or construction era, and forcing a car onto an incompatible track causes premature wear or jamming. If you have doubts about the cross-section of your current track, our pre-sales technical support is available to analyze the specifications before you place your order.

Material is another critical factor. Anodized aluminum is lightweight but requires constant protection, while AISI 316 is the standard for maximum corrosion resistance. If you often sail in warm climates or with high salinity, favor components with high-resistance surface treatments and balls made from self-lubricating materials.

How to configure the sliding system

• Verify the cross-section of the existing track before purchasing, measuring the width and profile of the rail.
• Compare the SWL working load of the car with the dimensions of your mainsail or jib.
• Choose ball-bearing cars if load-bearing adjustment is frequent, or slide-friction for static loads.
• Regularly rinse the tracks with fresh water to remove salt deposits that block the balls.
• Check the condition of the track mounting screws, replacing them with AISI 316 models if they show signs of rust.

How do I know if the track is compatible with a new traveler car?

Each manufacturer uses proprietary profiles with millimeter tolerances. You need to measure the width of the track head and the overall height with a caliper. If you do not have the boat's manual, compare the measurements you have taken with the technical tables provided by sailing hardware manufacturers.

Is a ball-bearing or slide-friction car better?

A ball-bearing car is indispensable for quick adjustment under load, such as for the mainsail traveler or the genoa sheet lead point. A slide-friction car is more robust, less expensive, and suited for static adjustments or where the load does not require immediate action while underway.

What should I do if the car jams on the track?

The problem is often caused by an accumulation of dirt or salt between the balls. Thoroughly clean the track and car with fresh water and a mild detergent. If the problem persists, check that there are no deformations on the track and that the balls are not worn or missing.

What does SWL mean in technical datasheets?

SWL stands for Safe Working Load, meaning the working load the component can bear continuously in service without deforming. Do not confuse it with the breaking load (BL), which indicates the limit beyond which the part fails structurally.