Alado Roller Furling

[Seadogdave]

I'm finally in the process of replacing my rigging on my Catalina 27 and while I'm at it install a roller furling system.  I've come across Alado Roller Furling, which has an attractive web site and a very attractive price compared to anything else.  Has anyone out there had experience with Alado systems?

[Seadogdave]

So .......... I'm assuming no one has any experience with Alado Roller Furling.  I'm continuing to research it all.  The Alado uses all aluminum and one can also run twin headsails.  The CDI system looks like a similar system except uses a plastic luff and can only run one sail.  They are both pretty simple, so it seems.  Anybody have experience with CDI systems?  Or ... do most out there choose no roller furling?  I've had roller furling on another boat.  Besides being so easy, it's nice with single handing, and also when a blow comes in fast and there is a need to respond quickly.  I'm not as quick and limber as I used to be!

[Frank]

I've had CDI on another boat. It was a 23ft, so a relatively small head sail, but as you mention...they are super simple and it worked very well. Twins would really be nice down wind...not sure of the cost difference between the 2. CDI are relatively reasonable to purchase.

EDIT:  I just looked up Alado....nice design....very reasonable pricing!!  The twin headsail feature would be super down wind!

http://www.aladous.com/pricing.htm

CDI...    http://sailcdi.com/ffmain.htm

[Ulladh]

I have an Alado furler on a 20ft boat. Easy to install in about 45 mins by one person. The big drum reduces the possibility of furling line override. The aluminum foil floats free on nylon bushings with no possibility of binding or twisting.

There are two tracks in the foil for twin headsails, but I have only used one.

Easy to furl and reef.

[Frank]

Thanks for that. I really like the option of twins down wind. Good to know it is easy to install!

[Seadogdave]

I think I'm about sold on the Alado system.  I've done an extensive enough internet search on reviews and the overwhelming consensus is that it's a great system, especially for the price.  In fact, I didn't see anyone that didn't recommend it.  Practical Sailor gave it a #1 rating.  Installation is easy.  The customer service is apparently great.  And, it seems that they have improved the aluminum alloy used in the extrusions from earlier kits.  I too like the possibility of twin headsails.  Thanks for the feedback guys!