Harken: Upgrade T-Track Leads

travelers
Upgrade your t-track lead system

common
genoa
systems

Harken #1997 and #1998 T-track lead cars feature a high performance roller/ball bearing sheave for exceptional performance both trimming and easing. The sheave will accept two 7/16" (12 mm) sheets to facilitate sail changes. The sheave carrier pivots 45 degrees to each side, swivels and articulates fore and aft to accommodate changing lead angles.

T-tracks are the most common genoa systems in use on boats from 30 to 40 ft (9 to 12 m) because many owners don't want the expense or complication of fully adjustable genoa cars. These skippers could still improve their performance by making a few simple upgrades to their tracks and cars.

Tracks should be replaced if they are getting worn and beat up. Unless a track is clean and free from dings, it can be difficult to move cars during headsails changes. Tracks also need as many stop holes as possible to allow fine adjustment of cars, but most standard tracks offer only 4" (102 mm) adjustment. Harken #3121 track has stopper holes on 32 mm centers (1 1/4") and is Hardkote anodized to resist damage.

T-track lead cars seldom have good sheave bearings. This adds drag when tacking. A good sheave will articulate to accommodate changing lead angles and unfair leads. Cars should feature either pin stops which can be locked open to facilitate sliding the car long distances down the track or sheaves to allow it to be towed on occasion.

T-track cars are not fully adjustable, but they can be adjusted from the cockpit during sail changes or tacks. The #1997 and #1998 feature a low friction roller/ball bearing sheave and fully articulating sheave carrier. The #1997 has a pin stop that can be locked open while the #1998 is designed for towing with a sheave for a 2:1 tackle.

T-tracks and T-track cars may not be as glamorous as fully adjustable ball bearing cars, but they have their place on racer/cruisers and on the #3 genoa on most boats. Making sure you have good tracks and great cars will make you faster-around the course or on your journey.