Lock and load alternatives?

bwd · Since 04 Aug 2007 385 Posts Obsessed

I am finally getting a 09 fuel, psyched but not really into the lock and load CL.
Would have got the lenten bar but need the extra few meters of flying line.

So, anyone have suggestions on switching out the CL or mods to this bar?
Basically what I want is a lenten-like bar with a bit more throw.
Guess I will try to live with below the bar sheeting, but not fully sold on that either.

Just thought I would ask, since this crew has a lot of SS riders....
Thanks!

Kataku2k3 · Since 14 Aug 2005 3754 Posts PDX-LA Videographer

You could totally modify a "Clip & Ride" setup, though you'd have to make a custom chicken loop which would push your trim super-high up (in order to get the same type of throw/depower you have now). Not a problem with some Amsteel and a bit of time. A sewing machine is a plus if you've got one (especially if you're anal about your stitches as I am). Obviously you'd lose your CSS, but if you can deal with that, it's not a biggie.

Another option would be to simply make line extensions for a Pro-bar, but you would still only have half of the throw as your current, Profire bar.

I'm riding the Pro-bar on my RPMs and it is definitely taking a while to get used to. Haven't had to edge/stomp the kite that hard since my old FUEL days. Laughing

bwd · Since 04 Aug 2007 385 Posts Obsessed

Thanks, that is kind of what I was thinking.
I think I can get some compromise - little less throw than standard, little more than Lenten, but trim within reach of my monkey arms.
Might have to edge more or stretch my arms though -it will be a fun experiment!
I will try an old 2-hole stopper below the bar as a CSS-leash anchor, to keep a "kinder" leash. I hope.
Will maybe try it next weekend, let you guys know how it goes....

Kataku2k3 · Since 14 Aug 2005 3754 Posts PDX-LA Videographer

The only problem I see with what you've got drawn up there is upper 'Mickey Mouse Ear.' Because it has a swivel on it, anytime you loop the kite or flip/roll, your new CSS bungee line will wind around the chicken loop, depower cleat/handle, etc. This isn't a problem if you always spin out, but it most likely won't work as reliably as the OEM CSS which will only twist your middle lines. The other thing you'll have to figure out is how to stop the "CSS power line." The LEN10 bar has a safety ring above, which would work similar to the old T2 as a safety. However, all '09 SS bars with the CSS have the Snowman ring with the molded line stop. This stops your power line from running out (via a small knot), instead of using a ring (which would stop when it hit the first 5-line stopper ball).

Pictured below is where I see it being the most complicated, unless you can somehow fit the factory CSS guide into the Mickey Mouse ring.

bwd · Since 04 Aug 2007 385 Posts Obsessed

I just drew the ears out of habit.
Thanks your advice, and pointing out that.
Seems like if I stick with the snowman, just change the CL, the rope and throw the cleat up top it might be ok. But I won't speculate more until i have it in my hands and fully understand how it works.
In any case I will probably try it stock for starters, and just try not to smack myself or pull the ejector by accident.
But if I come up with an alternative that works well, I'll put up a picture or 2 later.

bwd · Since 04 Aug 2007 385 Posts Obsessed

Anybody know where I can find one of these?
Secret stash maybe?
PMs or posts appreciated...

Kataku2k3 · Since 14 Aug 2005 3754 Posts PDX-LA Videographer

I have a used one (with housing) that you can have if you'd like... Very Happy

It'd be a whole lot easier if the old '05 Oneline conversions were still made. haha!

Chooch · Thu Jun 04, 09 10:15 am

You might want to check out West Marine for that (or any other boat supply house). They have tons of parts for sail boats including swivels and pullies.

bwd · Since 04 Aug 2007 385 Posts Obsessed

Thanks! I would like to get my hands on it. Sent a PM.

Yeah, those kits had a couple of issues, but they did contain that one part, which was a brilliant little part, and even "easier" to reload than the rope-on-rope ones Wink

bwd · Since 04 Aug 2007 385 Posts Obsessed

OK, a little update:
Got the 09 fuel, slightly used off a shop rider.
Naturally, it's nice. Cool

Still not 100% loving the lock and load, but getting used to it....

However, it needed a new bearing.
So far I haven't figured out a good way to use the swivel kataku was kind enough to send me, without fabricating a new cleat holder and/or mods to the CL, all of which would be hard to do without lengthening the whole assembly (and I want it short!).
So.
I solved my problem (for now) by substituting a stack of 3 nylon washers in the tube. Spins easily and is more like a proper thrust bearing than a sealed bearing as used originally.
It will probably wear easily if it gets sandy,
and it remains to be seen if the washer edges will chew the chicken rope,
but they probably won't chew it as much as a steel bearing would, and it's cheaper to replace ($2) and not subject to corrosion.

I used 3/8 washers and had to trim a couple mm off the outside edges so the washers would drop in the lock and load tube, but it was a pretty easy fix/mod.
Just thought I'd pass this fix on, though it is probably old hat to NW SS afficionados.

Meanwhile, the new spinner and CL parts for 2010 look pretty sweet, may update to that setup later. ...

Happy 4th and thanks for the advice!