Battcars have become a standard feature on ocean-going cruising and racing yachts. Introduced in 1991, the range was extended to various boat sizes in 1992. But even though they are robust and durable, they are not maintenance-free. This guide details the specific features of each model, recommended maintenance methods and mistakes to avoid.
Maintenance based on use and environment
The frequency of maintenance depends on the number of hours spent at sea and the conditions encountered: grit, sand, salt spray or dust. There's no need to dismantle the system regularly, but periodic checks are advisable, especially before long crossings or regattas.
Basic maintenance includes rinsing the rail and carts with fresh water, followed by sliding tests on the rail without load. If friction is detected, a defect in the balls should be suspected.
Michel, an experienced technician, recommends: " Pay particular attention to the headrest and slat carriages. "
Distinguish between two generations of Battcars to avoid dismantling errors
Post-2004 Harken carriages feature captive balls, held in place by an internal metal bar. They can be removed without special tools.
Older models, with non-captive balls, require a loader to prevent the balls from falling out. These carts can be identified by the absence of an engraved cross and by the presence of screw-on end caps.
Repair kits (e.g. HBB48) are available for these ends. The correct diagnosis of the cart type is therefore essential before any operation.
Identify signs of wear and tear and intervene without damaging the truck
Carriages must run smoothly on the rail. Poor smoothness may indicate ball wear or even ball loss. Faceted or marked balls must be replaced.
Dismantling varies according to the type of cart:
- For non-captives: the beads fall out when the magazine is removed.
- For captives: a small screwdriver can be used to release the clip that holds the balls in place.
Use a large pocket to hold the cart and hands.
Use a small flathead screwdriver to pry the metal bar from the center of the carriage, allowing the balls to fall out of the carriage.
To remove the clip completely :
- Press in the center to depress it slightly
- Remove one side using the flathead screwdriver
Ball reassembly :
For non-captive carts, use a loader to replace the balls.
For captive carts :
Replace the bar in its place.
Clip the new balls to the center of the carriage, where the bar is most flexible
Michel, an experienced technician, recommends: " If one ball is worn out, the whole set is changed to preserve the load balance. "
Lubricants to use (and those to avoid!)
Harken requires specific products to preserve the rail's surface treatment. Harken rails are anodized with a PTFE treatment. Any application of conventional lubricants, especially Teflon-based ones, is not recommended.
Two products are validated by the manufacturer:
- One Drop (ref. 7875): one drop on each side of the cart is sufficient.
- McLube (ref. ML08): apply to rails, leaving no residue.
These products ensure constant glide without altering the anodizing.
Precise dimensional marking to order the right components
Before placing an order, two steps must be taken:
- Rail width designated by letters AA (13 mm), A (22 mm), B (27 mm) and C (32 mm)
- Carriage length, to estimate the number of logs required
The Harken catalog, starting on page 275, lists compatible part numbers according to these measurements. Conversion from a captive model to a non-captive version is possible by adding "NW" to the part number.
