Lifeline Replacement Problem

[Paul]

On my 1990 Hunter 28, I noticed that at the second stanchion from the bow, the lower lifelines do not pass cleanly through the holes. Instead, they are bonded or glued somehow inside the stanchion, with the aft stanchion hole apparently crimped onto the lifeline.Is this normal or just something that a previous owner may have done. If this is normal for my model boat, what is the best way to remove the lower lifelines?By the way, the 1995 Hunter 33'6" in the slip next to mine has lifelines that pass freely through each of his stanchions.

 

[Paul]

Needs fixed

Each lifeline should be a single wire running from the bow pulpit attachment to the gate stanchion or stern pulpit, depending on how the stanchions and pulpits are placed. Anything else is not as safe.You can have a rigging shop fix this. Maybe your marina has one. I use West Marine's rigging shop, you call a toll-free number and they send you a form to fill out with pictures of the fittings you want at each end. I've been reasonably satisfied with their service, but I measure really carefully.You can remove the existing wires & fittings and send them off to be duplicated exactly. It sounds like that wouldn't be a good option for you, you'll have to measure. Make sure you have enough turnbuckles along the wire to compensate for measurement error.If your lifelines are the same thickness as the 336 next door, the wire is 1/8" in diameter.Good luck!

 

[Mike]

on my '85 28.5

Granted there are a number of years between models, but your arrangement sounds fishy.On my older 28.5 the lifeline wire passes freely and without obstruction through all the stanchions. The lifelines are secured by turnbuckles attached to the bow rail and quick-release clamps at the stern rail.Mike

 

[Andy]

Water inside

Paul,I had the same problem on my 37.5It was caused by water freezing inside.See the Forum Archive article "Stanchion damage avoidance" from Paul Hart (H34)Andy