The J/109 Class Association Forum

The Harken 2655 fiddle blocks that were fitted as jib lead control blocks on older J/109s are undersized. We had both of them blow up during one event. One of them even cost us second place in a hotly contested finish!

Harken is replacing them with 1515 double control blocks. The 1515 uses the same bolt pattern as the tang that was originally used to attach the fiddle. So replacement is a simple job with a screwdriver.


If you've had one of these blocks fail, US contact is Jim Anderson at Harken Newport (401) 849-8278. Ask for the J/109 jib lead fix kit.

Kudos to Harken for standing behind their product.


[Posted by: Dan Grossman
]

I had the same problem last year when the port fiddle block blew up during Buzzards Bay Regatta. Must have been the 35 knot of breeze we saw on the last leg of the regatta. At any rate, I replaced both with a Ronstan fiddle block that was the same physical size but rated for twice the load and have had no problems since.

Should have made it clear that this was a warranty replacement

[Posted by: Dan Grossman
]