An improved top down furling system includes one or more improved components. A lower rotary drive unit with a rotary tack swivel rotates against a fixed portion of the furler, or is configured to permit routing of the tack line below the unit. The system may include an anti-torsion cable constructed in a manner so as to be able to transmit torque without excessive tension applied to the cable. The system also may include an end terminal of the anti-torsion cable having a quick side mount or bayonet type connection to the rotary drive unit.