Servicing a Selden Furlex jib furler takes only a few minutes: lubricate the halyard swivel through the grooves at points "E" and "F", then lubricate the lower bearing assembly by removing the drum and greasing slots "A" through "D". Done once a year — or when the boat is unrigged at the end of the season — this simple routine keeps the headsail furling smoothly and prevents the stiffness that leads to hard-to-unfurl sails.
Selden Furlex service at a glance
| Service point | What you do | Key detail |
|---|---|---|
| Halyard swivel | Press grease into grooves "E" and "F" | Reaches the top and bottom bearings; apply on an angle |
| Lower bearing assembly | Remove the drum, grease slots "A", "B", "C", "D" | See the "Dismantling" section of your Furlex manual |
| Before greasing | Rinse the system with fresh water and let it dry | Selden's recommended first step for best results |
| Frequency | Once per year | Or at the end of each season when the boat is unrigged |
How do I lubricate the Furlex halyard swivel?
There are tiny grooves at points "E" and "F" through which a solid, water-resistant lubricating grease reaches the top and bottom bearings of the halyard swivel. You don't need to apply much — just enough to reach the bearings. Apply the grease on an angle so it works its way down into the bearings, which are the important part of the swivel to protect.
How do I lubricate the lower bearing assembly?
To reach the lower bearing assembly you'll need to take the drum off. It isn't a complex job, but follow the "Dismantling" section of the manual for your specific Furlex model so everything comes apart and goes back together correctly.
Selden recommends first rinsing the system with fresh water and letting it dry. Then remove the plastic screw at "A" and press grease into slots "A", "B", "C" and "D" — the last one sits between the terminal part and the hub — while turning the terminal parts so the grease distributes evenly.
What is the correct greasing technique for slots "B" and "C"?
For the "B" hole, place the grease on top of the inner ring. If you press down instead, you'll force grease under the bearings rather than lubricating them fully. For the "C" hole, push the grease in a downward direction so it works underneath and into the bearings, rather than simply packing it over the top — the same principle used when lubricating the lower bearings of the halyard swivel.
How often should I service my Selden Furlex?
Follow these steps at least once a year, and ideally when the boat is unrigged at the end of each season. Even while the Furlex is still rigged on the boat, this maintenance is simple enough to do yourself and goes a long way toward preventing the difficulty of unfurling a stiff headsail.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to service a Selden Furlex?
The core lubrication routine takes only a few minutes once you have your grease ready — often less than five minutes for the halyard swivel and lower bearing assembly.
What kind of grease should I use on a Furlex?
Use a solid, water-resistant lubricating grease so it stays in place around the bearings in the marine environment.
Do I need to remove the drum to service the furler?
Yes — to reach the lower bearing assembly you remove the drum, following the "Dismantling" section of your Furlex model's manual.
Should I rinse the furler before greasing it?
Yes. Selden recommends rinsing the system with fresh water and allowing it to dry before you apply grease for the best results.
How often should the Furlex be lubricated?
At least once a year, or whenever the boat is unrigged at the end of the season.
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