Recommendations for outhaul/inhaul lines?

[Dr. D]

I get the main set as I want it. Within 15 minutes the foot has pulled away from the boom. Only thing I can attribute this to is the outhaul line is stretching. Original lines. What might be a good replacement? Might as well replace the inhaul line as well.

 

[jssailem]

Hello Dr. D. What type of foot do you have on your sails?

• Loose Foot,
• Bolt rope
• Slug footed.

Your comments on the outhaul stretch sound like a loose-footed sail.
Using that assumption, then it could be

• The technique you are using to establish foot tension
• how you secure the outhaul
• the materials used for your outhaul (under working load)
  • A Nylon line can stretch 15-20%
  • A polyester line has 5-8% stretch
  • A Dyneema line has 1-2% stretch

 

[shemandr]

I can't stand stretch on halyards, outhauls, and reef lines.
Look for "Ultralow stretch" cordage. I'd start on the web pages from New England Ropes, Samson, Yale and a few others.
Other desirable properties include suppleness. A stiff line like StaSetX has very low stretch but doesn't go around blocks easily. Resistance to hockeling is desirable but not really necessary for an outhaul that a defined path and is usually is in tension. Not all high tech cordage holds a knot well or will slip through a line stopper.
You really have to shop but you can aggressively downsize the line. Your boat will sail better with low stretch cordage in those areas and will thank you.

 

[Davidasailor26]

If you find a solution please let the group know. We got new sails over the winter made with a cruising laminate. They look great within the right wind range, but the relatively low sail stretch exaggerates line stretch. When the wind goes up the halyard stretches and the luff gets wrinkly. Tighten the halyard and then when the wind goes down the draft is too far forward.

 

[Calif. Ted]

Your use of the terms outhaul/inhaul sounds like an in mast furling sail.

 

[Dr. D]

Your use of the terms outhaul/inhaul sounds like an in mast furling sail.

Yes.

 

[shemandr]

Here is an example of what a quality modern cordage properties could be - from Sampson. This line would be good as halyards or for your outhaul. It is likely expensive. But, A few hundred bucks could change the way your boat handles and Make Sailing Fun Again! Look under the "Characteristics" tab.

CONTROL-DPX - Samson Rope

Control-DPXTM combines HMPE fiber and Samson's patented DPX fiber technology into a strong, lightweight line that is winch and cleat friendly.

www.samsonrope.com

I hope that links goes to the page I was on!

 

[shemandr]

I meant "Features and Benefits "