We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again – here at Upffront we are passionate about lighter, faster and safer sailing. As a result, we are constantly searching for performance orientated solutions that will optimise sailing for all. However, whilst we offer lightweight solutions for a variety of sail configurations, it is the traditional furling system that comes up trumps for use with a single, large genoa sail that needs to be reefed. For this reason, we are pleased to welcome three traditional genoa sail furling systems – the Facnor Furlers LS, LX and RX – to the Upffront website, from furling specialists Facnor.
Established in 1985, Facnor Furling Systems have over 30 years’ experience manufacturing genoa furlers. Throughout the years, Facnor have become well practiced in forging highly engineered, simple designs, and are well-renowned for their continued innovation; their use of patented technology - such as their telescopic sections – has proved award-winning.
As well as winning copious awards, the furling systems have also faced rigorous testing globally by charters, boat builders and the infamous French offshore sailing scene, including IMOCA 60’s and offshore multihulls – frequent competitors in races such as the Vendée Globe. In their own words, Facnor are a worldwide leader in manufacturing genoa sail furling systems.
Ranges of Facnor Furlers
The LS range of Facnor Furlers is Facnor’s baseline traditional genoa furling system, for boats 5.5m to 28m in length. Designed as a cruising model, it is composed of a classic drum, a series of sections (that sit around the forestay) and a halyard swivel hoisting system. The foil sections are round with twin grooves and offer reliable, steady furling alongside high rigidity - furling is easy, even under halyard tension.
The Facnor Furlers LS range boasts the following features:
· Strong, resistant sections & connections (with high torque resistance)
· Rugged parts - 30µ Anodized Aluminium protects against impact and abrasion
· 360° furling line lead angle
· Optional internal turnbuckle fitting
· High load, waterproof halyard swivel
· No maintenance bearings
In addition, the LS Facnor furlers are easy to install: due to the patented telescopic sections, the system can be installed without unstepping the mast or cutting the wire. On top of this, the bearings – which run in grease - require no maintenance: the ‘bearing box’ utilises self-lubricating polymer fibre bearings.
The LX range of Facnor furlers builds on the LS range, offering a cruising specification adapted for ocean navigation.
The fixed tack fitting is upgraded to a rotating tack fitting; using Torlon ball technology, the tack fitting allows free and smoother rotation which, in turn, allows the furler to automatically take up the sail fullness when furling, providing a better sail shape. The LX feeder is stainless steel and the classic drum is replaced by a removable drum, which facilitates a swift change to a twin groove headfoil - ready for racing.
The Facnor furler RX range is a version of the LX which has been adapted for racing. Like its counterpart, the RX features a removable drum, rotating tack fitting and stainless steel feeder. However, the major difference is the foil sections: the RX employs elliptical sections instead of rounded, which are smaller and more aerodynamic.
Interested in purchasing a Facnor furlers LS, LX or RX? Visit the Upffront website here.
Each Facnor furler kit includes: Drum, internal turnbuckle fitting, short link plates, foil sections & connections, halyard swivel and HR shackles.
If you have any questions about Facnor furlers, please feel free to email us at [email protected], or click the link below to see our full range:
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Facnor Furlers LS/LX/RX - Genoa Sail Furling