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Topic: kite damage |
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tom |
Posted: 23-Apr-11 18:40 |
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Hi,
I seem to be damaging my kite (which has only been used a few times) a lot. I can't figure out what causes the damage.
The kite seems to go up and down smoothly. We haven't been capsizing or dropping the kite in the water lately.
I have an original jib furling kit, which I believe has been properly installed on my Buzz. I have noticed quite some friction between the jib furling kit and the kite (while hoisting/dropping). Since I had to do a lot of repairs to the kite lately, I was wondering if anyone has ever experienced any trouble with this?
Any advice will be appreciated.
Kind regards,
Tom
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paolomoncia |
Posted: 26-Apr-11 10:43 |
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Make sure everything sharp is protected with tape (including rings, shackles, etc on the jib halyard - and the screws to adjust spreaders length).
Do NOT use duck tape or anything else that would increase friction. Apply a spray lubricant all around the chute before sailing.
Hope this helps
Paolo |
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tom |
Posted: 26-Apr-11 22:06 |
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Hi Paolo,
Thank you for your advice. I must say that I have never used a spray lubricant on my kite before. Can you recommend any specific type or brand?
I think that the edges of the plastic, round furling kit housing (black part) are causing the problem, they seem to be quite sharp. As the furling kit is located near the entrance of the kite bag, the kite passes just along this part each time we pull it up or down. Do you think this could be the reason for damaging the kite?
Kind regards,
Tom |
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paolomoncia |
Posted: 27-Apr-11 07:58 |
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If the edges are very sharp with some protruding end they might cause some problem, even if usually tears are caused by the pin and ring (or shackle) used to secure the furler (and to fix the jib).
As for the lubricant I don't have a favorite brand (and what i use in italy may be different from what you find in the UK), but there are several manufacturers, the one I have now is from CRC. Basically any silicon based lubricant would do... you spray it on the bow and all around the chute so that your kite will enter smoothly, reducing the risk of forming a big clump which favors its getting stuck in something. However, the most important thing is to make sure that there is nothing around which might cut your sail! |
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