Which genoa track and cars are typically fitted on a Bavaria 37 Cruiser?
I want to replace the genoa cars on my Bavaria 37 Cruiser, ideally keeping the existing tracks. Are these normally Rutgerson fittings, and what measurements do I need to order cars that actually fit?
Answer
Rutgerson genoa cars on nominal 32 mm aluminium T-track are a common fit on the Bavaria 37 Cruiser, but the boat name alone does not identify the exact hardware. Check the maker's marks and measure the track profile before ordering, as production changes and previous replacements can leave similar boats with different fittings.
Identify the existing hardware
Start with the car and its attached sheet block: these are usually easier to identify than the rail. Look for a Rutgerson name, emblem or moulded number on the block cheeks, underneath the car and around the adjustment mechanism. Photograph both port and starboard assemblies, as one side may have been replaced.
Record the boat's build year and confirm the model designation from its paperwork. Bavaria used similar names across different generations, so a listing for a Bavaria 37, Cruiser 37 or 37 Cruiser may not describe your deck fittings.
The common arrangement has a separate track along each side deck, carrying a sliding car and swivelling genoa sheet block. The car may have a spring-loaded positioning pin or a control-line arrangement. Identify yours before searching for parts.
Measure the track profile
A nominal 32 mm measurement normally describes the width across the top of the T-section. It does not define the full cross-section, so another manufacturer's 32 mm car may not fit.
Use vernier callipers and record:
- Top width: measure across an undamaged section of the rail.
- Top flange thickness: measure the horizontal section captured by the car.
- Overall height and neck width: these determine clearance beneath the car.
- Stop-hole diameter and spacing: these must match a car's locking pin.
- Car length and block arrangement: include sheave diameter, sheet diameter and any control-line attachments.
Take an end-on photograph of the track if you can access its profile. A chandlery or Rutgerson distributor can compare the photograph and measurements with a current drawing. This is much more reliable than matching an online product photograph.
Unload the genoa sheet completely before releasing a positioning pin, removing an end stop or sliding a car off its track.
Choose a compatible replacement
If the fittings are Rutgerson, ask for a replacement car compatible with that track generation. Supply every visible part number, but distinguish numbers on the sheet block from those identifying the complete car assembly.