changing the main sail halyard

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Mar 15, 2013
2
Catalina 22 Lake Arthur, la.
I have a catalina 22 and would like tho change the main halyard, trying to figure out the best way to do the job with the mast up.
 
Sep 25, 2008
1,096
CS 30 Toronto
Use the existing to pull a smaller pilot line thru. And reverse to use the pilot line to pull the new one back.

Assume you splice the shackle.
 
Nov 23, 2011
2,023
MacGregor 26D London Ontario Canada
I would splice/attach/sew/tape the new line (End to end) to the bitter end of the old line so its not any larger around and strong enough to make the 180 degree turn at the top. Then just pull it up from the end that attaches to the sail.
Just make sure the two are attached well enough to make that bend! Test it by tugging it apart hard before you try and pull it up.
 
Jun 22, 2012
39
Catalina 27 std dinette mission bay
It's called a messenger..... it your halyard is all rope you can use the old one as the messenger... connect the two lines together, end to end, with a paper clip, or sew it together, then wrap some tape around it. You're now ready to reave the new halyard.

If you're replacing a wire/rope halyard, the sheave up top may accommodate the rope part .... in that case, clip off the shackle and tie a length of THIN line to the wire with a rolling hitch.... then wrap with tape..... now you can pull the messenger through, attach the new wire in the same way and use the messenger to pull the new halyard back into place.
 
Apr 8, 2010
1,606
Frers 33 41426 Westport, CT
Flemish eye, and a messenger line.

I use home depot twine, super cheap, and throw it away when your done. one spool will last you years.
 
Jan 1, 2006
7,588
Slickcraft 26 Sailfish
I usually use "Fiberglass Tape" - the very thin stuff with bundles of fiber running lengthwise in the tape. I wrap it around both lines end to end and then around in three bands on each line. This makes very little extra bulk and it will go around a block.
If I really don't want to have a separation problem I whip the lines together end to end first.
It's more difficult if you're using a smaller diameter line for the new - which you should consider given the lightweight low stretch options available today. Excellent halyard tension control is a pleasure to sail with and a worthwhile upgrade.
 
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