FX+ Continuous Line Furler Setup & Operation Guide
This guide explains how to prepare, install, and operate Facnor FX+ continuous line furlers for gennaker furling systems and other free-flying sails.
Watch the video below, then refer to the detailed instructions for best practice setup, safe operation, and long-term performance.
Detailed Installation & Operating Instructions
Note: these instructions have been translated from French. To view the original document with images, click here.
1. Product Overview & Kit Contents
Standard Kit Includes:
- Furler drum with Snap Shackle
- Upper swivel with D-Shackle
Additional Requirements (Not Supplied)
- Anti-torsion cable (diameter and length depending on model)
- Continuous control line (endless furling line)
2. Available Options & Accessories
Depending on the model and application:
Ratchet systems (CLK range)
Double fairleads (TSL 25 / TSL 28)
Articulated fairleads (ASL 25/28)
Stainless or aluminium thimbles
Textile snatch 2:1 blocks (LB series)
Friction purchase systems (SSH+ range)
Protective covers (drum and swivel)
For load-specific configurations, consult your supplier.
3. Preparation & Installation
3.1 Protective Adhesive (FX+ only)
Fold adhesive tape in half and remove backing from the center
Apply starting from the side opposite the stainless guide
Press firmly to remove air bubbles
Trim neatly along the guide
For small diameters, make relief cuts as required
3.2 Orientation & Line Guide Setup (FX+)
Identify the optimal orientation for your boat layout
Temporarily install the lower attachment point
Align the control line guide for a fair lead
Ensure the line guide arm aligns correctly within the drum groove
Loosen one housing screw (A or B)
Tighten the locking ring (Allen key) to secure the drum axle
Retighten the housing screw
4. Control Line Installation & Routing
4.1 Installing the Control Line
Locate the correct groove in the drum
Feed and position the control line correctly
Ensure the guide is fully closed
4.2 Locking / Unlocking the Axle
Pin will engage with a "click" when secure
Use the release trigger to unlock when required
4.3 Control Line Routing
Plan routing before going to sea
Ensure smooth lead with minimal friction
Maintain consistent tension in furling line
Secure by cleating or locking when not in use
Recommended setup:
Use fairleads mounted to stanchions
Double fairleads can open to allow spliced lines
Secure fairleads with Velcro straps
Additional tip: Add a turning block at a winch
Maintain tension using a shock cord
4.4 Protection & Maintenance
Avoid solvents on carbon components
Clean using fresh water and mild soap only
5. Operation Instructions
5.1 Preparation Before Hoisting
Lay sail accordion-style on deck
Insert control line into system
Check full control line routing
Connect all components (“click” engagement)
Attach tack to bowsprit
Attach head and protective elements
Check halyard condition
Apply correct halyard tension
5.2 Hoisting & Unfurling – Safety Guidelines
Only operate in suitable conditions
Follow sailmaker wind range recommendations
Wear gloves during operation
Unfurling:
Control using sheet on winch
Assist with control line if needed
Ratchet version:
If locked, rotate slightly to release
Sail will unfurl automatically
5.3 Before Furling
Apply proper tension to anti-torsion cable
Reduce sail load if necessary (bear away)
Ensure luff is straight and tensioned
5.4 Furling Procedure
Pull control line while easing sheet gradually
Best practice:
Confirm luff is straight
Maintain light sheet tension
Furl progressively in stages
Secure both ends of the control line
⚠️ Critical Check:
Ensure the swivel and head can rotate freely. Most furling issues originate here.
5.5 Furling with Ratchet Option
Furling stops automatically if control line is released
Resume by pulling line again
Ratchet resets automatically on first rotation
6. Safety & Maintenance
Never sail with the sail partially furled
Never rely solely on the ratchet to hold a furled sail
Always secure the system properly
Rinse all mechanisms with fresh water after each use
7. Support
For further assistance, contact your authorised dealer or Facnor technical support:
sales@wichardgroupena.com
Notes for Use
Proper setup and preparation significantly reduce handling time at sea
Always verify system alignment and line routing before use
Regular inspection and maintenance will ensure long service life
1. Product Overview & Kit Contents
Standard Kit Includes:
- Furler unit (FX+ or FXT)
- Upper attachment system (swivel)
- Lower attachment system (drum/tack fitting)
- Toothed pulley (FX+)
- 2 attachment points (top and bottom)
- Additional Requirements (Not Supplied)
- Anti-torsion cable (diameter and length depending on model)
- Continuous control line (endless furling line)
2. Available Options & Accessories
Depending on the model and application:
Ratchet systems (CLK range)
Double fairleads (TSL 25 / TSL 28)
Articulated fairleads (ASL 25/28)
Stainless or aluminium thimbles
Multipurchase blocks (LB series)
Friction purchase systems (SSH+ range)
Protective covers (drum and swivel)
Toothed pulleys (DC range)
For load-specific configurations, consult your supplier.
3. Preparation & Installation
3.1 Protective Adhesive (FX+ only)
Fold adhesive tape in half and remove backing from the centre
Apply starting from the side opposite the stainless guide
Press firmly to remove air bubbles
Trim neatly along the guide
For small diameters, make relief cuts as required
3.2 Orientation & Line Guide Setup (FX+)
Identify the optimal orientation for your boat layout
Temporarily install the lower attachment point
Align the control line guide for a fair lead
Ensure the drive pin aligns correctly within the pulley groove
Loosen one housing screw (A or B)
Tighten the locking ring (Allen key) to secure the pulley axle
Retighten the housing screw
FXT note: If required, remove and reposition the guide (4 screws), then refit using medium thread-lock.
3.3 Optional Systems Installation
Multipurchase Blocks (LB Series)
Install according to load requirements
Ensure correct alignment (dogbone axis at 90°)
Friction Purchase Systems
Install and engage securely (“click”)
Maintain approx. 45° working angle
4. Control Line Installation & Routing
4.1 Installing the Control Line
Locate the correct groove in the drum
Feed and position the control line correctly
Ensure the guide is fully closed
4.2 Locking / Unlocking the Axle
Engage until a click is felt
Use the release trigger to unlock when required
4.3 Control Line Routing
Plan routing before going to sea
Ensure:Smooth lead with minimal friction
Consistent tension
Secure cleating or locking
Recommended setup:
Use fairleads mounted to stanchions
Double fairleads can open to allow spliced lines
Secure fairleads with Velcro straps
Additional tip: Add a turning block at a winch
Maintain tension using a shock cord
4.4 Protection & Maintenance
Avoid solvents on carbon components
Clean using fresh water and mild soap only
5. Operation Instructions
5.1 Preparation Before Hoisting
Lay sail accordion-style on deck
Insert control line into system
Check full control line routing
Connect all components (“click” engagement)
Attach tack to bowsprit
Attach head and protective elements
Check halyard condition
Apply correct halyard tension
5.2 Hoisting & Unfurling – Safety Guidelines
Only operate in suitable conditions
Follow sailmaker wind range recommendations
Wear gloves during operation
Unfurling:
Control using sheet on winch
Assist with control line if needed
Ratchet version:
If locked, rotate slightly to release
Sail will unfurl automatically
FXT (drum) note:
Ensure control line winds evenly during operation
5.3 Before Furling
Apply proper tension to anti-torsion cable
Reduce sail load if necessary (bear away)
Ensure luff is straight and tensioned
5.4 Furling Procedure
Pull control line while easing sheet gradually
Best practice:
Confirm luff is straight
Maintain light sheet tension
Furl progressively in stages
Secure both ends of the control line
⚠️ Critical Check:
Ensure the swivel and head can rotate freely. Most furling issues originate here.
5.5 Furling with Ratchet Option
Furling stops automatically if control line is released
Resume by pulling line again
Ratchet resets automatically on first rotation
6. Safety & Maintenance
Never sail with the sail partially furled
Never rely solely on the ratchet to hold a furled sail
Always secure the system properly
Rinse all mechanisms with fresh water after each use
7. Support
For further assistance, contact your authorised dealer or Facnor technical support:
sales@wichardgroupena.com
Notes for Use
Proper setup and preparation significantly reduce handling time at sea
Always verify system alignment and line routing before use
Regular inspection and maintenance will ensure long service life
