In "JG" writes:

"Roger Long" wrote in message
.. .
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


Forget the wire/rope combo. The new non-stretch stuff is far superior. Go
for the good stuff. It's worth the extra cost (disclaimer... knowing nothing
about the supposed differences they're speaking of). I made the choice to go
to spectra and it was worth it. I had to change the sheaves, however. You
should double check this, as it's critical to maintaining normal wear on the
halyards.

If you decide to go with the all rope (I think it is a good decission) I
would suggest that you buy some 3 to 5 feet extra. Then you can cut a
piece of the end (two or three times) so that you move the position
where the hallyard is worn most by the sheaves and the clutches. Then
you can use them for more years.

- Lauri Tarkkonen