Line drivers

Line Drivers – Precision Control for Sail Handling

Line drivers are an essential addition to any performance sailboat, offering mechanical assistance for high-load applications such as traveller systems and genoa cars. By automating or enhancing line control, they allow for smoother, more precise sail adjustments with minimal effort. Whether adjusting mainsheet travellers under load or fine-tuning genoa car positioning, line drivers provide sailors with the power and efficiency needed for optimal sail trim.

Upffront offers a manual line driver alongside electric (12V, 24V, and 48V) and hydraulic options from industry leaders Antal and Harken. These systems are engineered for high performance, combining robust materials with precision engineering to withstand the demands of modern sailing.

Antal Line Drivers – Advanced Traveller and Genoa Car Control

Antal’s Line Driver systems are specifically designed for traveller control and genoa car adjustment. They operate on a closed-circuit loop, ensuring smooth and efficient movement along tracks while maintaining a clean and organised deck layout. The self-tailing pulley system enables bidirectional operation, with a textile gripping mechanism that maintains efficiency even when the system is unloaded.

Key features of Antal’s line drivers include:

• Manual Line Driver Option – Provides a compact, low-friction alternative to traditional tackle for traveller and genoa car systems.
• Self-Tailing Mechanism – Ensures continuous grip on the control line, reducing slippage and wear.
• Clutch Pin System – Allows sailors to lock the traveller in a fixed position or set movement direction for precise adjustments.
• High Power Ratios – With a standard 250mm handle, Antal’s manual system offers an 8:1 power ratio, far exceeding manual tackle solutions.
• Compact and Lightweight Design – Compared to traditional tackle setups, Antal’s line drivers offer superior performance in a smaller footprint with less weight.
• High-Quality Materials – Built from hard anodised aluminium and AISI316 stainless steel, ensuring durability in a harsh marine environment.

For powered solutions, Antal’s line drivers are available in 700W, 1000W, and 1500W motors, in 12V, 24V, and 48V versions. The largest model (LD1500HD) is a hydraulic variant, delivering a maximum circuit load of 900kg at 100 bar pressure.

With end-stop control systems and proximity switches, Antal’s powered line drivers provide automated stopping points, preventing overloading and ensuring safe, controlled movement of travellers and genoa cars. These features make them ideal for high-performance yachts that require precision tuning under load.

Harken FlatWinder – Versatile Line Management

Harken’s FlatWinder™ range offers a horizontal line-driving solution that excels in traveller and genoa car control, as well as applications like mainsail and jib sheeting. Available in two models—FlatWinder 250 and FlatWinder 500—these units deliver controlled, bidirectional movement using an integrated motor and reduction gear.

Key Features of the Harken FlatWinder:

- Multiple Power Options – Available in 12V, 24V, and 48V electric, as well as hydraulic 8cc versions, providing compatibility with different onboard power setups.

- Compact and Low-Profile Design – Ideal for deck-mounted installations without adding excessive bulk.

- High Working Load Capacities

• FlatWinder 250 – Up to 250kg maximum working load.
• FlatWinder 500 – Up to 500kg maximum working load.

- Adjustable Line Speeds – Electric models offer line speeds from 26 to 47 m/min, depending on voltage, while hydraulic versions maintain a consistent speed at different pressures.

- Automatic Stop Control – Prevents over-travel, reducing risk of damage to the track or control system.

- High-Quality Construction – Anodised aluminium base and pulley system ensure corrosion resistance and long-term durability.

Harken’s FlatWinder line drivers are particularly well-suited for:

• Mainsheet traveller adjustment – Allowing for fine-tuned control under load.
• Genoa car positioning – Enabling precise trim changes without excessive manual effort.
• Sheeting systems – Assisting in high-load trimming applications for jibs and mainsails.

The low-profile design makes them an excellent choice for yachts where deck space is at a premium, offering a sleek, efficient alternative to traditional winches or manual tackles.

Applications and Benefits of Line Drivers

Line drivers are a critical component for modern sailing yachts, offering significant advantages in performance, safety, and ease of sail handling. Their primary applications include:

Traveller Systems for Mainsail Control

Mainsheet travellers play a crucial role in balancing helm pressure and mainsail trim, especially in changing wind conditions. A line driver allows for:

• Quick, smooth traveller adjustments under load without excessive effort.
• Fine-tuned control to maintain optimal sail shape in light and heavy air.
• Improved safety by reducing the physical strain on crew members.

Genoa Car Positioning

Adjusting genoa cars effectively ensures efficient sail trim for different wind angles. With a line driver:

• Load adjustments are instant, even under high strain.
• Cars can be moved precisely, allowing for better upwind and downwind performance.
• Manual effort is minimised, making high-performance sailing more accessible.

Power Assistance for High-Load Systems

For performance cruisers and racers, powered line drivers help manage complex sail plans with ease:

• Reducing deck clutter by eliminating manual tackles.
• Ensuring repeatable, optimised settings with precise control.
• Allowing shorthanded or solo sailors to make adjustments without excessive effort.

Choosing the Right Line Driver for Your Yacht

When selecting a line driver, several factors should be considered:

• Manual vs. Powered Options – A manual line driver offers a simple and effective alternative to powered solutions, particularly for traveller control.
• Power Requirements – Electric models are available in 12V, 24V, and 48V, while hydraulic versions offer high-load capabilities at 100 bar pressure.
• Load Ratings – Choose a model with sufficient power to handle traveller, genoa car, or sheeting loads.
• Speed vs. Torque – High-speed models provide fast adjustments, while high-torque models are better suited for heavy-load applications.
• Integration with Existing Systems – Ensure compatibility with onboard power supplies and control interfaces.

Both Antal and Harken offer industry-leading solutions for line drivers, each providing a unique set of features tailored to different sailing applications. Whether you require precision traveller control, automated genoa car adjustments, or enhanced sheeting systems, line drivers deliver efficiency, performance, and ease of use.

By integrating manual or powered line drivers into your yacht’s sail handling setup, you gain greater control over sail trim, reduce physical effort, and enhance overall sailing efficiency—a must-have for both competitive racing and high-performance cruising.