Reefer extrusion bearing replacement

[Brion Toss]

Hello,
I'm with Brian on this one -- replace the wire. While the foil is down you can take a good look at everything, not just the top bearing. You can also make sure that you don't have a "recall toggle" at the bottom end (Harken will replace it for free). And if you have roll-pin connections you might want to consider an upgrade. Oh, and the kind of deflection you are talking about does not bode well for the masthead toggle, the masthead itself, or the bottom toggle and the stem fitting. Time for a very close look.
By the by, other ease-of-furling factors include tune, efficiency of lead block sheaves, whether you have a ratchet block at the aft end, and where that block is mounted.
I am sure you are now aware of this, but for the sake of others reading this I'll note that, as with any machine, good furlers need good installation to be trouble-free.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss