Last week I had to replace the Foil Rod which failed in gusty conditions. (One of the clips split) Murrays had no instructions on install and calling Nacra, I discoverered that even Nacra was hazy but helpful on the proper technique to replace it. I thought I'd share my experience. It's a two person job. (Think stringing a bow)
1) If the rod fails, furl the jib and get to shore quickly. If you cannot furl, let the jib loose. The foil flexes like crazy without the rod.
2) Purchase new rod assembly from Murray's or your local dealer. (they are in stock at Murray's)
3) Use your trapeze wires as forestay temp rig, and dismount the foil. (you cannot replace the rod with forestay attached)
4) remove old rod and tranfer adjustment nuts to the new one. Thread them all the way to the top most postion on post.
5) position foil, riser post up, on two sawhorses so the the tips engage the horses.
6 Insert male post into foil riser, measure to ensure the post is centered on the rod.
7) attach one end of new rod to foil
8) pressing down flex foil a few times carefully
9) Have one person press down on center of foil while the other person inserts the pin and secures the split ring securing the other rod end to the foil. (Basically you need to bring the foil ends up to meet the rod ends)
10) Remount foil assembly.
11) Tension the foil by tightening the nuts till it forms a slight upward U curve.
12) After the new part enters service inspect regularly and re-tension to retain the u shape.
The foil was always a part I took for granted. No longer. Especially as parts become hard to come by. I would assume that this extrusion is no longer available. As another owner of an older Nacra suggested, its wise to build up a collection of spare parts especially for one of a kind designs like the foil. Now time to pay attention to those diamond wires.....
In good winds this weekend everything seems to be working. I welcome additional tips on this procedure.
