June 15, 2018 2 min read
The Topper sailing dinghy is popular, both for club sailor and also travellers. At each Topper event in the UK there are hundreds of boats competing.
The Harken Topper Kicker system features on most modern boats and unfortunately sometimes the parts need replacing. Here is a guide to what you need to replace the system.
There are 5 parts to the Topper kicker system:
Some sailors also like to add a carabina to one end of the system for easy attachment, in this case we recommend the 6mm carabina.
A simple 4mm shackle will do the trick here, simply attach it at the top of the Harken 29mm carbo block.
One of our most popular blocks, it's a great size and can be used for many different applications across the Topper and other boats.
Simply attached the shackle to the top, tie your rope in a bowline through the centre of the block and you can start rigging the system with the fiddle block.
An impressive piece of kit from Harken. This 40mm fiddle block comes complete with a cam cleat attached, although some Topper sailors to prefer to change to a Spinlock.
Bring the rope down from the middle of the 29mm block, through the top pulley on the fiddle block, back up through the 29mm then through the main sheave and through the cleat.
Harken 40mm Topper Block and Cleat
We've tested lots of ropes for the Topper Kicker, all with our sponsored sailors who have travelled to loads of Topper events and experienced many different wind strengths and conditions.
The rope which came out best was the SK99 dyneema Evolution Race from Gottifredi Maffioli - that's why we created our Topper kicker rope product. It's the perfect length and it's a rope which will last, no more new kicker every event!
Available by the meter we have 6mm braided hose pipe available to make those control lines a bit softer on the hands.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
My favourite rope for splicing
Solid folding lock knife, this is my third one (dropped the last and the first I had for over 6 years).
Looks like it will be good at cutting rope, I've only ever used it for cutting cheese...
we order some stainless beta pins, good price and very quick delivery.
Zhik described this range as medium waterproofness. Unsure what this means and whether I need a spare set of gear for stronger weather. Not convinced but it fits well and it’s a good make. Would be good to see a long term review
The Inglefield clip was invented by Lieutenant Edward Inglefield RN in the 1890s, it has been standard issue to British warships since 1895.
The idea was to make a reliable and fast way of assembling a hoist of signal flags, which they do very well.
I have had a long involvement with these clips, mostly for flags, but they have other uses, for example the West Lancashire Seabird One Design (a half rater) use the clips for their spinnaker halyard attachment to the sail, and I have seen a big version cut out of steel plate for a special job.
The standard clips are made from brass, these medium size nylon ones are clearly not as strong as brass, but they are good for small flags.
A further advantage is the avoidance of metallic stains on the bunting.
I don't think they would be strong enough for a big flag in windy conditions, but that isnt what i purchased them for.
Brilliant rope pack - thanks
Well made and arrived well within time frame really happy with the cover and service highly recommended
Many thanks to the team for advice on which products are in stock and which is most suitable.
This part fitted exactly.Excellent expert advice. Promptly delivered.
Regards Martin
Buoyancy aid arrived nice and quickly, and a nice little park of love heart sweets. Haven’t had chance to sail in it yet, but it’s a nice fit and great quality. Should be testing it out this Sunday.
Quick delivery, well made product and perfect for my purposes.
Goods as described. Arrived promptly. Everything as expected.
I bought the rope to replace rope for stage curtains at our village hall. It was speedily delivered in time for the panto and is smooth to use and does the job perfectly!
Great easy to use web shop, delivered on time exactly as described, will deffo use again
Finding it difficult to refuel & surprised how quick the fuel runs out
Came exactly as described --work well--delivered promptly