Life Lines

[thaeni]

I need to replace life lines this year. I was planning on re-using
all the fittings and just replace the actual line and studs. Is there
a reason they have right and left studs?

 

[Ed Schenck]

Me too. I just received an estimate from Defender for my '79 H37C. Same thing, I have to get back to them with the exact lengths and the threading on the studs. Not sure of the reason but since I am reusing my pelican hooks I need to get it right(or is it left?).

I have considered using rope or uncovered wire this time around. But since the current ones are vinyl covered, are thirty years old, and still not that bad, I think I will just go with the standard.

 

[caguy]

I recovered mine with split plastce tubing from WM. I stripped the old ones with a sharp knife. They wer old, brittle and discolored. They stripped off pretty easily. Pressing on the new covers takes patience and strong thumbs but he results were well worth the effort. The cost is only a couple of dollars for a six foot section.
My life lines now look fresh and brand new, not like the crusty old guy (Novelman) hanging from them.

 

[zds]

Gee - I need this too. Any tips on good deals on the supplies?

Frank: I need a warm and fuzzy from my lifelines; recovering the existing (certainly corroded and degraded) line doesn't give that too me. Still, the point of failure is more likely to be the stanchion, right? Can you elaborate on your project?

 

[Alan]

just my 2 cents worth; I switched to 12 strand spectra lifelines instead. Covered stainless is pron to rust. Uncovered stainless cable can develop fish hooks and is not kind to hands. Spectra is stronger than steel and is kinder to hands. It's also way cheaper than steel. I'll never go back.

 

[Clark]

Yo Alan,
How often do you anticipate replacing your lines (due to expected abrasion and/or UV damage)?

 

[caguy]

Gee - I need this too. Any tips on good deals on the supplies?

Frank: I need a warm and fuzzy from my lifelines; recovering the existing (certainly corroded and degraded) line doesn't give that too me. Still, the point of failure is more likely to be the stanchion, right? Can you elaborate on your project?

ZDS: I got them from West Marine I am the last of the old cheapos, but I was amazed how inexpensive they were. They come in different diameters. I stripped the old yellowing/brown ugly plastic off with my pocket knife. They were brittle and came off easily. The ss cable was still like new, no rust. I pressed the new ones on forcing the cable through the slit. On a warm day they will go on much easier. I was dubious as to whether they would stay on if grabbed but that hasn't been a problem.
You can't get much cheaper that a couple of dollars for a 6' section. I also like Novelman's life lines, his are padded and covered with canvas. Very comfortable to lean your head on.

 

[Ketoj]

Most of the new sexy boats come with bare wire lifelines but I just can't bear the thought of a nicked strand becoming a meat hook for all to find! I'm with you Alan. I replaced all of mine a couple years back on my H34. I also increased diameter and replaced all fittings. It was about $600 all-in. However, they are "lifelines" after all, no sense going cheap there!

 

[patrick nannery]

Look up,"Nance and Underwood" riggers in Ft.Lauderdale, call them and talk with Roger, tell them Pat,'The Office" told you to call. send him the old lines and he will make new ones. Cost me about $90 for a Hunter 33.5. (note that I sent him only one side as they were equal length on both sides).