Ronstan Series 55 Orbit Block, Ratchet with Link Head

Single ratchet block with auto & manual ratchet modes and Dyneema® Link Head

Automatic ratchet block

Now you can enjoy the flexibility of setting up your ratchet blocks to suit yourself. Ronstan is the only company that offers a ratchet block with both auto and manual engagement modes*. In the auto mode of the ratchet mechanism engages when load is applied, but switches off when it's released. This lets the sheet run out smoothly and freely-great for rapid easing of the sheet and for gybing asymmetric spinnakers. In manual mode, the ratchet mechanism can be switched on or off as required. This is the preferred mainsheet set-up for may top sailors. Try the block in both modes and see which you prefer - you really can't go wrong.
* Selected Series 55 models.
 
Awesome ratchet block holding power
Quite simply, Ronstan Ratchet Orbit Blocks™ have the highest holding power available. The sophisticated NC-machined sheave features Generation 2 of our patented sheave cross-hole geometry. Its holding power is up to 20:1, almost double that of our nearest competitior. The unique sheave design has 12 gripping faces which directly resist loaded line movement. Traditional designes have only 8 faces with an angled resistance to line movement. Our Generation 2 design has straight resistance faces which both distribute the load and minimise rope wear. These faces are offset from the radial line, to draw the rope down into the gripping area when under load. 

Simple and secure attachment
The Dyneema® Link is easily fitted and is retained securely by a moulded retainer clip. The flexible link can be left with one end attached to the block when fitting - no more lost shackle pins. The system is compatible with Dyneema®/Spectra® strops, webbing and caron connection points - much more so than steel loop tops or shackles. In auto mode, the sheet runs out smoothly and freely sas soon as the ratchet mechanism disengages. In manual mode, the sheave cross-hole geomtry eliminates the 'shuddering' run-out that you can expect from traditional v-groove ratchet blocks.

Features

• Up to 20:1 holding power.

• Smooth easing of sheets.

• High performance cleating.

• Easily fitted and securely retained Dyneema® Link head.

• Automatic & manual ratchet block.

• Dinghy mainsheet systems.

• Mainsheet systems on sportsboats using RF6 or RF7 mainsheet swivel cleat unit.

• Spinnaker sheets on dinghies.

• Spinnaker sheets on sportsboats and small keelboats (lateral lead blocks).

• Control line applications on larger yachts

• Sheave: Anodised Aluminium

• Ball Bearings: High compression strength carbon black Acetal

• Frame/Cheeks: Toughened, glass fibre reinforced Nylon

• Rope Link: UV stabilised, multi-strand impregnated SK75 Dyneema®