different sizes
If its the same size rigging that came from the factory, all the wires are 3/16 except the lower shrouds which are 5/32. The wire size is fine, the problem with older 27's is they had weak "eyebolt" chainplates that bolted thru the hull with a 3"x 4" flat SS backing plate. There was nothing to prevent the eyebolt from rotating and twisting the shrouds, causing eventual failure of the shroud, or the bolt would just break. The backing plate is a little weak as well and would flex or warp. Upgrades are to a "U" bolt configuration with a larger backing plate that has a flange to prevent it warping. Or just a larger eyebolt but with a way to prevent it rotating, plus the new backing plate. Both kits are available from Catalina Direct for under $100 (catalinadirect.com). Other weak point was the sockets attaching the spreaders to the mast. Early ones were aluminum. Improved version is stainless. Also available from CD for <$100 if I recall. If you have these upgrades, and the rig is in good shape otherwise, you shouldn't have a problem... Good luck!
