Which genoa track and cars are typically fitted on an Arcona 340?
I need to replace or service the genoa cars on my 2011 Arcona 340 as they are starting to stick badly under load. I'm not entirely sure what make or size the factory fitted, and I don't want to order the wrong parts. Can you tell me what track system is on there and what I should be looking out for?
Answer
The Arcona 340 was typically factory-fitted with Harken 27mm Midrange or Lewmar Size 1 NTR genoa tracks, paired with towable genoa cars controlled from the cockpit. Because this performance cruiser was built between 2009 and 2015, the factory standard was an adjustable 4:1 purchase system rather than basic pin-stop cars, allowing you to trim the jib angle under load.
Harken 27mm Midrange System
Standard Harken gear features a 27mm wide extruded aluminium track with a low profile. The genoa cars belong to the Midrange CB (Captive Bearing) series. These use Torlon ball bearings. Torlon balls are distinctively brown and give the car a safe working load of 1,043 kg.
A standard towable system features:
- A Harken Midrange CB car with a pivoting sheave and a double control line block.
- A forward end-control set with double sheaves to create the 4:1 purchase.
- An 8mm control line, often upgraded to a Dyneema core for low stretch, led back to a cam cleat in the cockpit.
A replacement Harken 27mm towable car costs between £450 and £550. Maintaining the existing units saves money.
Lewmar Size 1 NTR Hardware
Some Arcona 340s left the yard with Lewmar Size 1 NTR (Non-Tensioned Roller) hardware. This is common on earlier hulls. Lewmar tracks have an I-beam profile rather than the C-shape used by Harken.
Lewmar cars use recirculating Delrin and Torlon balls. The control line sheaves integrate directly into the end caps of the car. Lewmar parts are widely available across Europe. A complete Size 1 towable car replacement costs around £380.
Maintenance and Bearing Replacement
Genoa cars stick when the ball bearings degrade, flatten out or become clogged with dried salt. Do not force stiff cars with a winch. This will tear the control line or break the end-stops.
- Cleaning: Flush the tracks and cars thoroughly with fresh water after every sail.
- Lubrication: Never use standard grease, Vaseline or WD-40. These trap grit and destroy Torlon balls. Use a dry PTFE spray like McLube Sailkote or Harken OneDrop conditioner (around £15 a bottle).
- Rebuilding: You can rebuild the car if the balls are flat or missing. A Harken 27mm CB rebuild kit (part number HSB21) costs £35. The captive bearing design stops balls spilling out when you take the car off the track. Slide the car onto the provided plastic loader piece to be safe.