I have two 16's one is OLDER - (bought used cheap) has Harken blocks/hardware. Looks really nice - works fine.

NEWER boat I also bought used recently has other hardware. SEAWAY I think is the name on it. Has very light rust (could be rubbed off easily I'll bet) looks okay, performs well...
The difference is this set has some sort of rachet above the travel car that I REALLY LIKE - (love the sound has I haul in the main sheet). I might sell the older boat, but I want to pull the best parts from it for the newer boat.

Which hardware would be superior? (better to have on the best boat). I'd hate to sell the old boat with the Harken gear if the Seaway gear is junk in comparison? I really have no clue.

Maybe both are same quality?

I would say that since Hobie now uses all Harken blocks on their new boats, that Harken is better. Then again, can you have too many spare parts? I have a harken 6:1 mainsheet system, which you will eventually want as well if you don't have. I can send a pic if you'd like. I like the ratchet in high winds, in the lower stuff I turn it off.

Sell the Seaway.

Does the harken then have the rachet option? Maybe mine is off. What is the purpose of the rachet? sounds neat, but doesn't seem to be locking anything?

I think the Harken is a 6:1 it's pretty massive, sure - post a pic of yours. Pics are always a plus.

http://www.thebeachcats.com/index.php?module=pictures&g2_itemId=22701

Thank link has a pic of my 6:1 blocks. I wouldn't say that the 6:1 is massive. It is designed to be "low profile". In my opinion, the ratchet makes it a little easier control the main with the mainsheet.

Thanks fun pics - I'll have to shoot some of mine. I think I have that same 6:1 block on the older boat. I don't think I do on the newer boat. Not sure if I feel any difference.

I'll take some pics - maybe you can help explain what I have.

If the ratchet is off, the block will spin freely.

This will allow you to either let the sail out really fast if the ratchet is off.

or

Will help with sheeting in if the ratchet is on. The block will only turn in one direction, so there is some friction on the line.

I can almost sheet one handed in light air, but then I run a slightly fatter line.