Centerboard cable?

[Stephen Blake]

OK. We are almost in the water. The last thing I would like to replace before putting her in her slip is the centerboard cable/line. The current line is rope with a wire core which is starting to barb. Is this type necessary or can I use dacron or something else. I don't want to have to take her back out of the water for 2 years if I can help it. Suggestions?Stephen

 

[Don Evans]

I Agree

Stephen, with todays' choices in modern synthetic ropes, I see no advantage in using the rope to cable spliced CB line. IMHO cable is a good choice for high strength, dry and oxygen rich environments, not for wet bilge and CB routing tube areas. The rope does not have to be extraordinarily strong as the CB is not that heavy, but should be high in abrasion resistance and rot resistance. I would go with a 5/16" double braid. Check the line routing fairlead block sheaves (2 I believe?) to make sure the line will lay nicely in them. The trick will be in joining the line to the CB clip, shackle or tying directly on to the CB. If you can, I would splice an eye. This is the most permanent and least bulky. If its a knot you want a knot that is not bulky or will work itself undone. My choice would be a bowline or a round turn and 2 half hitches. You may have your own favourites.Don