Behind the Box: Testing the Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car
My sailing, and specifically my experience with sail trim, has been a long and sometimes frustrating journey. For years, the process of adjusting my genoa cars, especially while tacking or in gusty conditions, was a wrestling match against friction and awkward reach. This is precisely what led me to seek out a more efficient solution, something that could bring those crucial adjustments within easy reach. The Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car presented itself as a potential game-changer, promising the ability to lead control lines aft for cockpit adjustments.
Initial impressions upon unboxing were promising. The unit felt solid, with a substantial feel that spoke of durable construction, typical of the Barton Marine brand. There was a satisfying heft to it, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of marine environments. I had briefly considered a few other brands, but their designs didn’t offer the integrated tow eye or sheave functionality that seemed so critical for my specific need. My first reaction was one of cautious optimism, a quiet hope that this could indeed solve a long-standing annoyance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial tests took place on my 36-foot cruiser during a series of coastal passages, including some moderately spirited sailing in varying wind strengths. This involved numerous tacks and gybes, where the ability to quickly and easily adjust genoa car positions is paramount for optimal sail shape and boat speed. The primary performance metric was how smoothly the control line ran and how effectively it translated into precise car movement.
During these first outings, the towable genoa car performed admirably. Adjustments were noticeably smoother compared to my old system. Even in a stiff breeze, leading the line aft to the cockpit meant I could trim the car without leaving my helm position, a significant convenience and safety improvement. There were no immediate issues or surprising quirks; the installation was straightforward and the operation intuitive from the get-go.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, spanning numerous weekend trips and a longer offshore passage, the Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car has held up exceptionally well. It’s become an indispensable part of my sail handling system, used on almost every sail. The unit continues to operate with minimal friction, even after prolonged exposure to saltwater spray and varying weather conditions.
Durability has been impressive, with no signs of cracks, stiffness, or performance degradation. The black finish remains intact, and the internal workings feel as smooth as they did on day one. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple rinse with fresh water after each saltwater excursion is all that’s required, and occasional light lubrication of the sheave has kept things running perfectly. Compared to some cheaper, plastic alternatives I’ve encountered in the past, this metal car feels built to last for many seasons.
Breaking Down the Features of Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car
Specifications
The Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car is designed with a specific purpose in mind: to facilitate remote adjustment of genoa cars. Its key specification is the integrated tow eye or sheave that replaces a traditional plunger. This allows a control line to be fed aft directly from the car, enabling adjustments to be made from the cockpit. The black color likely refers to a durable coating or material, offering good resistance to UV and saltwater degradation.
This feature is crucial for shorthanded sailing or when you need to make rapid sail trim changes without leaving the helm. The ability to lead a control line aft means a single crew member can easily manage genoa car position, which directly impacts sail efficiency and overall boat performance. The length of 1 inch specified is rather minimal and likely refers to a specific component dimension rather than the overall footprint of the unit.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of the Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car is to allow for easy, remote adjustment of genoa car position. It performs this function exceptionally well. The sheave runs smoothly, allowing the control line to feed freely with minimal resistance. This translates into precise control over the genoa’s lead, which is essential for optimizing sail shape in various wind conditions.
Its main strength is undoubtedly the convenience of cockpit control. This significantly enhances the sailing experience, especially for solo or two-handed crews. A potential minor drawback, depending on the specific track system it interfaces with, could be ensuring perfect alignment for the smoothest possible operation; however, this is more a function of the track than the car itself. It easily meets and exceeds expectations for its intended use.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this genoa car is fundamentally about utility and robustness. The construction feels solid, with a metallic component that suggests longevity. The black finish is not just aesthetic; it likely serves as a protective layer against the harsh marine environment.
Ergonomically, its success lies in its integration. The tow eye or sheave is positioned to facilitate easy line attachment and smooth running. There’s no complex setup or learning curve; once installed on the correct track, it’s ready to go. The smooth action of the sheave makes manipulation of the control line comfortable, even under load.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its intended application on a sailboat, durability is paramount. The materials and construction of this towable genoa car suggest it is built for sustained exposure to saltwater, sun, and wind. Under normal sailing conditions, it should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is commendably straightforward. A simple freshwater rinse after sailing in saltwater is usually sufficient to prevent salt crystallization and corrosion. Occasional inspection of the sheave for any debris or wear is advisable, but overall, it’s a low-maintenance component. Potential failure points would likely stem from the track it’s mounted on or severe impact damage, rather than inherent flaws in the car itself.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product description highlights the core functionality as the tow eye or sheave for leading control lines. This is not a product with a wide array of accessories in the traditional sense, as its customization is more about how it integrates with your existing running rigging. The critical “accessory” is the control line itself, which needs to be of appropriate diameter and material to run smoothly through the sheave and be easily handled in the cockpit.
Compatibility will depend on the specific genoa track system fitted to your boat; it’s crucial to ensure this Barton Marine unit is designed for your track type. There aren’t typically interchangeable parts for the car itself, so its utility lies in its direct, functional design.
Pros and Cons of Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car
Pros
- Cockpit Adjustability: Enables genoa car adjustments directly from the helm, ideal for shorthanded sailing.
- Smooth Operation: The sheave ensures control lines run freely with minimal friction.
- Durable Construction: Appears to be built with robust materials for marine environments.
- Simple Integration: Replaces standard plungers, making installation relatively straightforward.
- Enhanced Sail Trim: Facilitates quicker and more precise sail adjustments for better performance.
Cons
- Track Compatibility: Requires matching to a specific genoa track system, limiting universal application.
- Minor Specification Detail: The stated “1 in” length is vague and may not reflect the overall dimensions clearly.
- No Additional Accessories: Does not come with a control line, which must be sourced separately.
Who Should Buy Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car?
This Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car is an excellent choice for sailors who frequently shorthanded or sail with a small crew. If you often find yourself needing to adjust your genoa’s lead while at the helm, especially during tacks or in fluctuating wind conditions, this product will significantly enhance your sailing experience. It’s particularly beneficial for cruisers who prioritize ease of handling and efficiency.
Anyone looking for extreme lightweight racing solutions or who has a very basic, non-adjustable track system might want to look elsewhere or first assess their current track’s capabilities. For those with standard genoa tracks, a must-have complementary item would be a high-quality, low-friction control line of appropriate length, allowing you to fully leverage the car’s remote adjustment capability. You might also want to consider ensuring your existing fairleads and clutches are up to the task of managing the new control lines.
Conclusion on Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car
The Barton Marine Towable Genoa Car delivers precisely what it promises: a practical solution for remotely adjusting genoa car positions from the cockpit. Its robust construction and smooth operation make it a worthwhile investment for any sailor seeking greater control and convenience at the helm. The ability to easily feed a control line aft through the integrated sheave is a standout feature that genuinely improves the sailing experience, particularly for shorthanded crews.
Considering its apparent durability and the significant functional improvement it offers, the price point of $139.49 feels justified. It’s not an inexpensive part, but its ability to streamline sail trim and enhance handling outweighs the cost for many. I would wholeheartedly recommend this towable genoa car to fellow sailors looking to upgrade their sail control system and make those crucial adjustments effortless. If you value efficiency and ease of use on your sailboat, this Barton Marine component is a solid choice.