Folding or Spring Cleat Regrets?

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Skipper J

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Sep 7, 2022
50
Captiva Yachts Sanibel 18 Lake Wylie
Hi,

Now that folding and spring cleats have been out awhile, I'm wondering how they are holding up for you sailors. Structurally, I imagine they can't be quite as strong as solid ones. One Internet forum I saw said to steer clear of spring cleats for saltwater. I'm thinking of putting folding cleats on my dinghy, and on my Sanibel's bow for the anchor line. They would sure cut the trip hazard, but do they hold up as well?

I'd go with stainless steel if i converted.

Thanks,
Skipper J
 
jssailem

jssailem

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Oct 22, 2014
21,124
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
Hey there Skipper J You raise an excellent question.

Firstly, I discovered not all folding cleats are the same. The only manufacture I could find testing data from was Accon Marine.
www.acconmarine.com

Folding Cleats

As the most simple installation of any retractable cleat in the industry, you’ll want to check out the folding cleat. FEATURES Mounts on surface of boat. No cut-outs or hole saws required. These cleats lock down when not needed, and spring up when release button is pushed in. No drain tubes or...
www.acconmarine.com www.acconmarine.com
Here is their reported data for an 8" folding Cleat.

I installed a pair of the 6" cleats as MidCleats on my boat. I use them to assist in docking. I used the bolt through design. I used 3/16 aluminum plates as backing plates. These have preformed well over the past 5 years.

You will want to size the cleat based on the work load and size of line you intend to use.

I love the way they lay flat and out of the way when not in use.
 
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