I finally unwrapped the mast for "Strider". The standing rigging is in
great shape due to the fresh water but all the running stuff is junk
after six years just hanging in the elements.

I knee jerked to trying to get another wire / rope halyard and then
started really kicking myself when everyone I called said, "Week to
ten days. It's that time of year." Then I called Hallett in Falmouth
ME who took plenty of time to talk with me and acted like the wanted
my business. That always makes me more inclined to give someone my
money.

They said to ditch the wire/rope and go with the new low stretch ropes
if the sheaves weren't too chewed up. The owner's association for our
E32 reports that the sheaves are suitable for either wire or all rope.
I got the masthead box out and, sure enough, there is just a hint of a
wire groove. The sheaves are in pretty good shape but I'm going to
chuck them in a drill and polish them up.

Hallett said that West would try to sell me a low stretch rope but it
wasn't nearly as good as what they would sell me at about $300 for a
38 foot (deck stepped) mast. If I order it Monday, I can get the boat
rigged in time for the weekend.

I'd appreciate any halyard opinions or experience while I mull this
over the weekend. It's a pretty standard masthead rig with roller
furling. We won't be racing, just easy cruising.

--

Roger Long