When it comes to sailboat hardware, especially for performance sailing, selecting the correct mast car for your spinnaker pole is crucial. These components, often referred to as Pole Cars, are essential for securely attaching and smoothly operating your spinnaker pole on the mast. This guide explores different types of pole cars, helping you choose the best option for your boat and sailing needs.
Toggle Cars: Reliable and Robust for Offshore Conditions
For sailors demanding ultimate reliability, especially in offshore environments, toggle cars are a proven choice. Our toggle cars, designed for poles with 1-1/4″ and 1-1/2″ diameters, are built to withstand heavy loads. They are available in both durable stainless steel and hard coat anodized extruded aluminum, ensuring longevity and corrosion resistance. The toggle pin itself is always constructed from high-grade stainless steel for maximum strength and security. For larger vessels, the 1.500″ toggle spinnaker car is recommended for boats approximately 50′ to 70′ LOA, fitting standard Schaefer 41-12 1.500″ tracks. The incorporation of UHMW inserts guarantees low friction movement, making pole adjustments effortless even under pressure. For boats utilizing TS & UTS end fittings and Forespar T-125-S cars, remember to subtract 5″ from the “J” dimension when determining pole length. Furthermore, for vertical pole storage on masts, especially for larger poles up to 6″ diameter, a long toggle option is available, while the standard toggle accommodates poles up to 4.500″ diameter.
Ring Style Mast Car RC-125: Strength and Compatibility
The RC-125 ring style mast car stands out for its exceptional strength, achieved through investment casting of 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel for both the ring and body. This construction method delivers a superior product capable of handling significant loads. It is designed to be compatible with “UXP” and “UTR” pole end fittings. The ring itself features a 1.625″ inner diameter. Specifically designed for 1.250″ T-tracks, the RC-125 includes a secure screw lock-pin and special UHMW polyethylene slide inserts for smooth operation. It also incorporates provisions for both up and down shackles, adding to its versatility. However, it is important to note that the RC-125 car is NOT recommended for use with poles intended for vertical storage up the mast.
Heavy Duty Spinnaker Car FC-125: Versatile and Cost-Effective
For yachtsmen seeking a safe and effective pole attachment solution without the higher price point of pin-type cars, the heavy-duty FC-125 spinnaker car is an excellent choice. This car provides both vertical and horizontal movement, effectively eliminating unwanted spinnaker pole twisting. The car slide is manufactured from high-strength, hard anodized aluminum alloy, ensuring durability and resistance to wear and tear. The pole acceptance jaw is constructed from stainless steel for secure and reliable pole engagement. The FC-125 is designed to fit all standard 1-1/4″ x 3/16″ flat stainless or aluminum T-tracks and is recommended for use with “UTR” and “UXP” type spinnaker pole ends.
Vertical Pole Storage Car VPC-125: Simplifying Mast Storage
Vertical pole storage can present challenges, especially on larger sailboats. The VPC-125 vertical pole storage car provides a simple and effective solution to these problems. This mast fitting securely retains the upper end of the stowed pole along the mast centerline. The chock slides smoothly on the track, eliminating rattle, vibration, and binding of the pole end during storage. All four car types discussed, including the VPC-125, are designed to fit 1.250″ T-Tracks, offering compatibility across your mast hardware system. This vertical pole storage fitting is available in four sizes and can be effectively rigged with FC-125 and T-125 mast cars for a complete and integrated system.
Choosing the right pole car depends on your boat size, sailing style, and storage needs. Whether you prioritize heavy-duty offshore reliability, versatile performance, or convenient vertical storage, there’s a mast car designed to enhance your sailing experience and spinnaker pole handling.
