After nothing but problems i have formed the opinion the xt bases are higher maintenance than my girlfriend, thats saying something.

They certainly can be fiddly, and bits of them need replacing. I have had one since about 2005 and I have replaced virtually every component on it including: rope, cog, ratchet handle, ratchet springly latchy thing. So yeah, they can be great when they work, but can also be the source of major explosions of expletives on the beach when you want to go for a sail....

lee1972 said...

Replaced the rope, the spring and the collor which collapsed on me while i was out in the bay, it made a rather baggy sail ( excuse the tech term ) had a nightmare getting back to shore.

Lee1972 have you completed the modification to fit the spring steel tang to assist with the cord slippage problem. PM me if you haven't.
Always use Mylar 4mm rope.
I have had two of these for 3 years, changed bugger all cept the rope. And I am a rough bastard on gear