Do your docklines squeak? I finally solved it!

[Zeus2012]

First, I bought new lines, no success. Then I tried chafing gear, no success. I tried soaping the lines, worked for a little while. I tried wrapping a small towel around the line. Worked for a while. My final, successful solution is silicone rubber hot pads. From the Dollar Store. Works like a charm.

 

[Benny17441]

Never noticed. Thanks for sharing.

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

a) am I right in assuming the source of the squeak is at the boat cleats ?

b) what is the material of your docklines ?

 

[All U Get]

I sometimes tie the lines a bit too snug, then they squeak. Mostly the 3-strand lines going through the chock rather than the woven create the sound when wind or current pull hard. I put snubbers on the spring lines that have changed the tone. I now find the squeak relaxing.

All U Get

 

[Justin_NSA]

My dock lines don't squeak but my fenders do if I'm pulled up against the slip for easier boarding. My neighbor has these 'fuzzy' sleeves over his to keep them quiet. He even has a matching pair for his dock corner wheels. I thought they were for decoration until I read that they have a purpose (besides keeping the UV off of the rubber).

 

[JamesG161]

I put snubbers on the spring lines that have changed the tone. I now find the squeak relaxing.

Hmmmmm I hate to admit it but @Kermit has influenced me! Not saying good or bad but...

His boat is a Osprey dropping target!

I wonder if he could tighten his lines and rub a fender to "squeak" annoy the birds.
Jim...

PS: no squeaks here.

 

[Kermit]

So far the flag pole with a little VCR tape seems to be doing the trick. I also cross halyards over the spreaders.

If docklines were squeaky wheels...

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

I put snubbers on the spring lines that have changed the tone. I now find the squeak relaxing.

So the tighter the spring lines, the higher the frequency of the squeak ? Make them tight enough, and pretty soon every dog in the marina is out howling .

 

[Zeus2012]

West Marine (New England 3 strand black nylon, brand new). The squeak is actually at the stainless strake at the corner of the deck/hull. Squeaked as just lines, squeaked with chafing gear, no longer squeaks with the silicone potholder and does not damage the potholder.