The Profurl LC42 on Sweet Destiny has earned its wraps. It’s about fifteen years old, and hasn’t been given much TLC in that time. It knocked about in charter through adolescence, and was then neglected for some years. So it’s a fairly cynical and experienced furler. While the Profurls are reliable, well-proven units, there are some weaknesses to the design that show up over the years. E.g. stainless allen head fasteners that connect the linkplates to the main body of the unit that are notorious for becoming frozen into the aluminum from ye old galvanic corrosion. My rigger had to drill one out, resulting in some damage to the body, and necessitating the replacement of the linkplate. I was taken aback at the number of stainless-in-aluminum fastener issues I noticed when disassembling it. If you’ve got a Profurl, disassemble it soon (if you can), and make sure there’s some Tefgel or Lanocote on any stainless fastener in aluminum. It’ll save you big headaches down the road. My other disappointment is that the “lifetime sealed” bearings are weeping rusty stains. I guess they are sealed for the lifetime of the seals.

Disassembling the foil wasn’t too bad, though I was warned that the set screws holding the sections together can often be frozen. As they are relatively small, I was particularly concerned about stripping out the heads. I ended up heating most of them with a propane torch, which seemed to help loosen them up. Only boogered up one, which I had to drill out. Use blue Loktite for reassembly.

All-in-all, I think the Profurl is pretty good. I’m curious how other brands of furlers have held up over the years.