hilburnjjcl
01/04/10 #7629
This past summer I had my older EPIC mid-wing paddle fitted with the new LL2 length lock system by the repair shop in Sumas, WA. I had had trouble with the old locking system getting stuck together or slipping while paddling. Yesterday, I finally got around to checking on my paddle after my CG incident on Saturday and was alarmed to find out that the new LL2 system had failed completely. I would recommend that others periodically check their two piece paddles to insure that they aren't slipping. Mine had slipped maybe two or three times prior to Saturday before it finally failed. The EPIC website states that the new system doesn't require maintenance or lubrication, so I'll let you know why it failed as soon as the Sumas shop takes a look at. Dangerous stuff that I hope was just a fluke incident.
Hilburn
Re: Length-Lock 2 System
gabe newton
01/04/10 #7630
Sounds like a two piece paddle, regardless of the lock system might be an unnecessary risk on big days? It only has to fail once. Perhaps a one piece paddle is something to consider when getting a new paddle. Given that, can anyone identify the locking systems that are more solid, and the locking systems that are more prone to slippage/failure?
Thanks, cheers,
Gabe
Re: Length-Lock 2 System
Erik Borgnes
01/04/10 #7631
I've had great luck with the locking systems on the Brasca (hex tool screw lock), the Jantex (regular philips screwdriver screw lock), and with the Onno lever lock. On the Onno, which had the small metal Yaklok lever, I wasn't completely sure about it based on its appearance, but it worked perfectly and seemed robust enough.
I've never had 100% success with any of the screw down (Epic, Fenn, etc) 2 pc locks.
A 1 pc would be preferable, like you've said - once your confident about the feather and length. The problem then would be in using the 2 pc in races that you travel (fly) to as it would be a risk then.
Erik
Re: Length-Lock 2 System
Jeff Hegedus <jhegedus@…>
01/04/10 #7632
I swam twice at USSSC when the LL2 slipped; big hard braces in big conditions increased the torque on the shaft and caused the slippage. Turned out, in that case, that it was my own fault; I did not realize that the LL2 screw system is adjustable, and I did not tune it properly (see the lastest Epic Newsletter on how to tune the LL2). Since then, I maintain the screw adjustment, and it seems to work fine.
Re: Length-Lock 2 System
Michael Gregory
01/04/10 #7633
Ideally, one would like to have several paddles of varying lengths and pitches to match conditions and whim. Until that day arrives, I'll stick with my Epic lever-lock - and tape it on certain auspicious occasions.
Re: Length-Lock 2 System
steven wort
01/04/10 #7634
My Epic 2 piece has been rock solid over 4 years of nearly daily paddling, it gets taken apart, shoved into its bag, cleaned occasionaly, and re assembed almost daily.
The only problems come when it gets dirty, however I suspect that dirt is an issue with all the length lock systems.
Re: Length-Lock 2 System
Reivers Dustin
01/04/10 #7635
You've caught it. On cam-locks and other lever-action mechanical clamps they often need 'tuning' to have the right amount of force at end-of-travel. This setting changes as materials age - even materials that are dimensionally stable.
I've had my old collar-clamp type fitting dressed up by Mark P. of Epic several times. He has pointed out that the friction surfaces are carefully 'toothed' to have proper bite at the correct tension.
Any friction system is vulnerable to wear or introduction of foreign matter. You would never put oil there on purpose. But how about sunblock from your hands as you assemble the paddle? If you get sand or dust it will abrade the gripping surfaces away and leave a smooth surface (no more grip). Every time you move the pieces around you introduce wear.
When I assemble mine, I line the pieces up away from the final sweet spot so that I'm not cranking things around and knocking the tooth off of the important surfaces. So, I've done all these mistakes: sand, dust, dried salt water, under & over-tightened, put wax on the threads (!), and grabbed the gripping part with vasaline covered hands.
When there is slippage, it is a freaking head bender. It's like you're walking and suddenly one leg is six inches shorter. If you don't get facial tics and the blind staggers from this, you are a better man than I. Who would think that such simple equipment would be so fussy.
rd
Re: Length-Lock 2 System
hilburnjjcl
01/04/10 #7637
Jeff,
Thanks for the info. I wish I would have asked sooner or had EPIC let me know about the potential need for adjustment(s). Obviously they've had some problems with the LL2 if they have to write an equipment update news brief to educate the general population.
Hilburn
Re: Length-Lock 2 System
Jeff Hegedus <jhegedus@…>
01/04/10 #7640
I think that you are correct about this. My LL2, like yours, was a retrofit of an existing paddle; no product information came with the upgrade. And, I didn't ask. I don't know if new blades come with product information informing of the tuning requirement. Anyone with an Epic LL2 should be learning from these posts, for sure. The good news is, I think that the LL2 should work, if tuned for conditions.
At USSSC, twice I readjusted the paddle by throwing my feet out in gnarly conditions and twisting it back; and twice I had to rest over the cockpit on my belly and retwist. If only I had known my equipment better, and tightened that darn little screw, Larry G. would not have gotten away. Next year at USSSC I'll be cranking that little screw down good; and, it makes me think that carrying a tiny tool on board for this purpose might be appropriate.