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Squeaky Ball? SC15

Posted: July 9th, 2019, 8:28 pm
by Laz
I have been fortunate to own 2 SC15s. The first was a used Whaler-era that I had for 20 years. More recently, I got a used mid-90s model. Both are wonderful.

However, the first one never made a sound. After 4 years, the newer one now squeaks like an osprey. The first boat never had grease on the ball, the newer one came with grey grease on the ball. I haven't added or intentionally removed the grease. The noise started late last summer and has become progressively louder. At first is was only during/after an aggressive sail - maybe water got up in the cavity?

So what is the diagnosis and cure, as the noise is giving me a headache.

Thanks!
Laz

Re: Squeaky Ball? SC15

Posted: July 10th, 2019, 10:54 pm
by Matt Haberman
Hi Laz,

You can clean the ball and the inside of the mast base with a cloth rag and some lacquer thinner to remove the old grease. Before you step the mast put a marble size dollop of wheel bearing grease inside the mast base casting. That should resolve the squeak.

Re: Squeaky Ball? SC15

Posted: July 17th, 2019, 2:20 pm
by Laz
Hi Matt,

That worked great.

Out of curiosity, why did I never need grease on my older SC15? I sailed it for 20 years.

The only difference I can think of is that we now use the trapeze on the newer boat.

Thanks.

Re: Squeaky Ball? SC15

Posted: July 17th, 2019, 9:04 pm
by Matt Haberman
Laz,

Not sure why you didn't need lube before. We have been putting a bit of lube on the ball as I describe as long as I can remember.