The motor is an important component that allows for the easy furling and unfurling of the boat’s mainsail. In some instances like periodic maintenance or when you suddenly hear strange sounds from it, the furling motor then needs to be removed. For those unfamiliar with the process, the right tools and know-how will get it done safely and efficiently.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin removing your motor from the hood roller furling mainsail, make sure you have the right tools and materials to do the job.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Philips head screwdriver
- Socket wrench with an extension
- Lubricating oil or grease
It’s a good idea to wear work gloves when handling tools and sharp edges and have a clean workspace, too. Having these items handy will let you complete the job safely and effectively.
Four Steps to Install a Furling Mainsail
Unplug the Battery
Before you start the process of removing the motor from your hood roller furling mainsail, you must first unplug the battery. This will ensure that the motor won’t turn on while you are working on it.
Start by turning off the power switch or disconnecting the circuit breaker. You will then need to locate and remove the wires that are connecting the battery to the motor. Be sure to take note of which wire is connected to which terminal.
Remove the Motor Cover
Before you can remove the motor from the hood roller furling mainsail, you will need to take out the motor cover. Start by removing any screws that are holding the motor cover in place.
Once the screws have been removed, you should be able to pull off the cover and set it aside. Make sure to keep track of all the screws, as they will be needed to put the lid back in place once you’ve completed your repair.
Take Out the Motor
Once you have unplugged the battery and removed the motor cover, it’s time to take out the motor from the roller furling mainsail. To do this, first, loosen and remove the motor bolts that are holding the motor in place. Depending on the model of your motor, you may need a wrench, socket wrench, or screwdriver for this.
Once the bolts have been removed, carefully lift the motor from its position and place it aside. Make sure not to let any cables get caught on the motor housing or sail track as you do so.
Removing a Furling Mainsail: 4 Steps
Reinstall the Motor Cover
Once you’ve taken the motor out of the roller furling mainsail, it’s time to reinstall the motor cover. To do this, you’ll need to start by positioning the motor cover in the right place. Then use a screwdriver to secure it into place with the screws. Be sure to tighten them securely so that the motor is firmly held in place.
When you’ve done this, you can then carefully slide the top portion of the motor cover over the bottom half and secure it in place with more screws. Make sure that the motor cover is properly aligned with the hood before tightening the screws.
Finally, check that the motor cover has been installed correctly by running your fingers along the edges of the cover to ensure that all of the screws are securely fastened. This will help ensure that your motor is properly covered and protected from any moisture or dirt.
How to Reef a Roller Furling Mainsail
Reconnect the Battery
The last step in the process of removing your mainsail’s roller furling motor is reconnecting the battery. This can be done by plugging the positive and negative terminals back together. To do this, you’ll need to have access to a wrench and screwdriver set.
First, locate the positive terminal on the battery and remove the nut or clamp that holds it in place. Take care not to loosen any of the other nuts or clamps around the battery during this process. Once the positive terminal has been removed, attach it back to the positive post on the motor, using the screwdriver to ensure a secure connection.
Next, locate the negative terminal on the battery and remove the nut or clamp that holds it in place. Then, attach it back to the negative post on the motor, again using the screwdriver to ensure a secure connection.
Finally, after both terminals are firmly connected, reconnect the battery to its charger. This will ensure that the motor is always ready to go when you need it. When reconnecting the battery to its charger, make sure you follow all safety precautions such as making sure there are no sparks or electrical shocks while handling the wires and connections.
Conclusion
When removing a roller furling motor from your mainsail, it is essential to carefully follow the steps and take the necessary precautions to avoid damage to the sail or injury to yourself. To do this, start by unplugging the battery, then remove the motor cover, take out the motor, reinstall the motor cover, and reconnect the battery If you are unsure about any part of the process, it is always best to seek advice from a professional. By properly maintaining and repairing your mainsail and its components, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable sailing experience for years to come.
Changing a Mainsail Furler to a Standard
Common Furling Mainsail Problems
This blog post is provided for informational purposes only. The information contained is not intended to constitute legal advice or to substitute for obtaining legal advice from a qualified attorney.