Normal sound of the NEOX when taking up slack
Basic Techniques
You have probably heard the sound made by the NEOX when you are quickly taking up slack. This clicking sound is normal: it’s caused by rope tension making the wheel rub against the blocking stops.
Warning
- Carefully read the Instructions for Use referenced in this Tech Tip before reading the Tech Tip itself. You must have read and understood the Instructions for Use to understand this supplementary information.
- Performing these techniques requires specific training. Work with a professional to confirm your ability to perform these techniques safely and independently before attempting them unsupervised.
- We provide examples of techniques related to your activity. Other techniques not described here may also exist.
When pulling on the brake side of the rope to take up slack, the rope tension makes the wheel move upward: this is the same process that activates blocking when the rope runs in the other direction. As the wheel moves upward while rotating counter-clockwise, it rubs against the blocking stops, making a “click” each time one stop rubs against the other. This normal operation is inherent to the NEOX’s blocking system: it produces no unusual wear of the parts involved, and the sound cannot be reduced.
Details and images:
Gently taking up slack:
Rope running opposite to the blocking direction, under low tension. The wheel does not move up toward the blocking stops, and turns freely.
Taking up slack with higher rope tension:
Rope running opposite to the blocking direction, under higher tension. This can happen in the event of a sudden move, or if the climber is hanging on the rope, for example when you want to help them on a top-rope. The wheel moves upward and rubs against the blocking stops, making a series of “clicks”.
Reminder about wheel operation for blocking: when giving slack, the wheel turns freely without moving up toward the blocking stops. When there is tension in the brake side of the rope, the wheel moves upward while rotating clockwise, and engages the blocking stops. Note: a sudden move to give slack can produce an intermediate situation, without blocking but with a slight sound of the stops rubbing against each other.
