Wind cups, high-precision axle and ball bearings are in a single assembly. There is also a tiny magnet in the base of the wind cups for the wind speed sensor. Maintenance-free.
The Wind Instrument is designed to be disassembled easily. If you have the Wind Instrument RB, since Nov. 2019 it has no C-shaped retaining clip around the base of the cups, so the old cups can be replaced without disassembling the larger unit. The most recent units have a 2 mm (5/64″) set screw holding the wind cup axle; just loosen that and put in the replacement. If your model does not have a set screw just beneath the wind cups, you can pry the cups up with a thin flatblade screwdriver or knife blade. This is quick and easy, and can be done yourself. Put a drop of superglue on the new axle (and bushing if needed) and gently insert the new axle into the hole. Further details on disassembly link below.
For older models with a black C-shaped retaining clip around the base of the cups, follow these disassembly instructions. Unfortunately our company cannot be responsible if something breaks while you are doing a replacement. So we also have a $45 service option, if you prefer to send in your Wind Instrument for this disassembly and installation. Add this when ordering the cups if you want us to send back your Wind Instrument with the new wind cups and axle installed.
The box is shipped inside a larger corrugated box since the cups sometimes get crushed during shipping if a smaller box is used. The cups ship out within a day or two by FedEx. You’ll receive a tracking number by email when the package is sent.
Craig (verified owner) –
Wayne McKinnon (verified owner) –
I felt the cost of the spares was reasonable, quickly despatched, well packed. I have had some communications with SailTimer and they have been patient and forthcoming with answers to my queries about this new era in instrumentation. These instruments are powerful and have lots of bits and functions, which took me a little time to get up to speed on. On the boat it now works as promised, I just need to get the most out of it.