Q: What is included in the y-valve repair kit?
A: The y-valve repair kit comes with a new valve handle, O-ring, wiper, screws and cover plate. The part number regardless of age or hose size for the kit is 902006. When replacing the parts, use waterproof grease such as Marelube™ to help keep the valve protected and lubricated.
Make sure to open and close your valves at least a couple times a month so that they do not become stuck. If you cannot reach the valve, pour Marelube™ liquid down one of the hoses and open and close the valve so that it becomes properly lubricated.
If you have any further questions or need replacement parts, please contact us at sales@forespar.com.
Q: Are whisker pole lock repair kits available for purchase?
A: The internal locking mechanism in Forespar® twist-lock poles can wear with time and lose their ability to lock. Replacement lock kits are available for purchase online. To help prolong the longevity of the locks, use fresh water to clean your pole and never use a lubricant as this can cause the lock to swell and become dysfunctional. Additionally, twist-lock poles should only be used on boats of length 30ft and under as larger boats can place too heavy a load on twist-lock poles.
If you have any further questions or need replacement parts, please contact us at sales@forespar.com.
Q: What is required to install my Hoyt Boom System?
A: When installing the Hoyt boom, a backing plate is recommended for structural support, which Forespar® does not manufacture. The backing plate must be the same diameter as the pedestal and should be of sufficient thickness to help spread the fastener load. The backing plate can be made of teak, aluminum, stainless steel or hard plastic such as ABS or Nylon. The pedestal can be installed more than 10 feet aft of the J length. If this is done, your jib will most likely need to be re-cut. Make sure the Hoyt boom is installed before you have a sail maker adjust your jib.
The boom needs to be installed so that the pedestal is level. Forespar® sells shims that adjust the pedestal up to a 6o angle. If your deck is angled more than 6o you will have to have custom shims made. It is recommended that a professional rigger install your Hoyt boom to maintain structural integrity. Detailed instructions for installation can be found at http://www.Forespar.com/products/sail-hoyt-jib-boom-system.shtml.
If you have any further questions or need replacement parts, please contact us at sales@forespar.com.
Q: What size Hoyt Boom should I buy for my boat?
A: Deciding what size Hoyt boom to buy is dependent on overall boat length and J dimensions. Model 250 is recommended for boat lengths 25’-29’, Model 300 is for boats 30’-35’ and Model 350 is for boats 35’-42’. More details about choosing the right size can be found here Hoyt Jib Boom.
If you have any further questions or need replacement parts, please contact us at sales@forespar.com.
Q: What are the advantages of a Hoyt Boom?
A: The Hoyt Boom system is a forward boom for your jib that allows for self-tacking. This is a great benefit for short-handed crews and cruisers because it reduces overall workload. Additionally, the Hoyt boom allows for greater trimming ability due to the fact that the outhaul can be adjusted, giving you more control over the leech, and allowing you to control the twist of the jib as you fall off wind, and thus maintaining sail efficiency. When sailing down wind, the Hoyt boom can be used as a whisker pole to hold the jib out, improving speed and handling characteristics.
If you have any further questions or need replacement parts, please contact us at sales@forespar.com.
Q: Can I buy LED replacement bulbs for the ML-2 Combination Bow and Foredeck Light?
A: The ML-2 combination bow and foredeck light comes with standard light bulbs. There is the option buy the ML-2 with LED bulbs. Additionally, the ML-1 deck light can be ordered with a LED bulb. Replacement LED bulbs for both the ML-1 and ML-2 are available.
If you have any further questions or need replacement parts, please contact us at sales@forespar.com.
Q: How do I properly maintain my spinnaker pole when stored on the mast?
A: The spinnaker pole needs to be removed from the inboard mast fitting two or three times a year. When you remove the pole, clean out any salt build-up on the aluminum end fitting and stainless steel mast car toggle using fresh water or vinegar.
If the end fitting is stuck to the mast car toggle, remove the track-end stop and take the spinnaker pole off the track. Place the end fitting and mast car in a bucket of vinegar and let sit for a week. If this does not work, use a hand-held propane torch to heat the aluminum end fitting, which will allow it to expand and slide off the toggle car. Please take care when using the propane torch!
If you have any further questions or need replacement parts, please contact us at sales@forespar.com.
Q: How do I properly maintain my whisker pole?
A: Only fresh water should be used to clean your whisker pole. Never use a lubricant as this will cause the rubber liners to swell and lock and not allow you to adjust the length of your pole. To help maintain the condition of your pole, store inside your boat whenever possible.
Replacement parts are available here http://www.Forespar.com/products/sail-pole-lock-repair-kit.shtml.
If you have any further questions or need replacement parts, please contact us at sales@forespar.com.
Q: What length Forespar® whisker pole I should buy?
A: The size of your whisker pole depends entirely on the length of your boat. A small boat requires a shorter pole, while a larger boat requires a longer pole. Diameter is a major function of strength. A 2-1/2” diameter tube is as much as 70% stronger than a 2” diameter tube. The force created by the headsail can cause a pole to bend or break if it is not the right size.
Every Forespar® pole is custom designed for each type of boat based on the J dimensions, the length from the headsail pin to the front of the mast. Labels on the whisker poles note the maximum length boat that can be used for each pole.
We strongly suggest you use our size recommendations when selecting the pole for your boat. Forespar® cannot offer any warranty on poles that are too small for the boat. Here’s a link giving you recommended poles for each brand of boat. http://www.Forespar.com/whisker2011.shtml
If you have any further questions or need replacement parts, please contact us at sales@forespar.com.