I replaced my Fico system about three years ago. I went with a new Harken system. Rather than do the windward sheeting traveler, I ran the control lines to the cockpit combings on each side and connected the entire works with a continuous traveler control line. Now my mainsheet man can straddle the traveler and simply pull upward to bring the car up to weather. Because the line is continuous, you can simply yank it off the leeward camcleat to free it up. I decided to go this route because it gave us a better purchase in a blow. At the end of each side of the traveler, I have Harken turning blocks to improve the purchase.
When you take the old traveler off, you'll discover that the indentation is arched. After I filled all of the old holes with West epoxy, I bought a piece of white heavy plastic and cut it to fit the traveler indentation. I used stainless steel washers to level the plastic and the track. The washers allow water to drain out from the area.
If you are interested, I could send you photos via e-mail. My address is goodreader@cox.net.
Good luck. Changing over to the Harken system is a huge improvement.
Bob Rude
