To get a good idea of the line types available, the usage, and trade offs,
(re recreational boating) you should check out one manufacturers sites such
as http://www.samsonrope.com/home/newindex.cfm
You will also find their splicing instructions for each type of line, as
well as notes on tying knots in this high end lines as these lines are
slippery.

You will find that the recommendations you have been given are validated
there.

find some local marine dealers on the web and check the pricing between the
line types.(eg West)
When you see the price differential you will choose a more conventional
line, where the prime concerns are strenght, and low streach, and not
weight.

If you do buy "no name" line, make sure it has UV protection - the main
brands do.

Personally, I have long been a fan of good line and good knots, but there
are circumstances when only a splice will do.

There is another that I don't believe was mentioned, and that is increased
safety, some being:
- no wire barbs as it ages and fatigues.
- wire moving fast thru a hand or over a body part will likely cut by the
time it is felt , whereas line will produce a rope burn.

Other: you mentioned rope-wire splices. You should also inspect the
haylard winch barrels for any burring from taking wire wraps.
If any were full wire halyards, the winches would be the take up spool type,
and need to be replaced when going to line.

Matt


"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