Need to replace running rigging - what size?
Posted by Available_Bowler2316@reddit | sailing | View on Reddit | 6 comments
OK, it's been a few years since I had a boat. I just bought a 16' Newport in pretty good shape, but it needs all new running rigging.
Any suggestions for size? I'm looking at double braided polyester, 6mm (1/4" for halyards and 10mm (3/8") for jib and main sheets. I think this matches what's on the boat now.
Also, I'm looking at #4 whipping twine to keep the ends neat.
Does this sound about right?
Lopsided_Ad_5152@reddit
Grandson, huh. With all due respect, you have to be a little older. How are your hands. The problem with small diameter lines is that it's hard to hold on to if you have arthritis. I go as big as your blocks allow, not for strength, but for hand holding power. I have 5 grandkids, I'm in the same boat! See you on the water!
Sinn_Sage@reddit
Take the old lines with you so you can get the proper size, length, and fittings if needed.
KStieers@reddit
Re: sheets - what do the blocks allow for? Are you racing or cruising, and how much wind?
My crew hates rigging my fat sheets, but appreciates the size because its less fatiguing to trim continually. But in light wind they are a little heavy...
Available_Bowler2316@reddit (OP)
Mostly putzing around in light winds. Crew may be my 4 year old grandson.
The blocks are somewhat of an assortment but the smallest is a Schaeffer 404, which should handle 10mm.
From the sound of it I should probably go to 8mm.
KStieers@reddit
Yeah, no reason to go bigger...
texasrigger@reddit
Yeah that sounds right although I would personally go with 5/16" for sheets. You can whip the ends if you want but fusing them with a hot knife is fine, too.