Need to replace my mainsheet - What type of splice at end?

catsailor · May 27, 2012

dknape said:
Okay, so I went out and enjoyed the boat on Saturday, but ran into an issue where a section of my mainsheet has suffered enough chafing that it would no longer fit through the eye of the block and I then could not let out the mainsheet.

So now I need to replace the mainsheet before I go back out sailing and would like your assistance in helping me figure out what type of a splice I need in my sheet to attache to the boom. I will be ordering my mainsheet through West Marine. The specs for my 1987 Hunter 26.5 call for a 88' 5/16" line for the mainsheet.

Do I need a "flemish eye" or a "braided eye" or something else? I am considering getting the Sta-Set or Sta-Set X depending upon the cost of the braid.

QUESTIONS:
1) What type of splice do I need?
2) What recommendations do you have as far as choosing which line to go with?

Link to West Marine's custom running rigging order form:
http://content.westmarine.com/documents/pdfs/RiggingServices/Running.pdf

It's called a knot. A bowline will solve this quicker than I can type it.

You just learned the down side of splicing; they take more time to renew and don't always fit well. Strength is a non-issue on your size boat.

Saillife · May 27, 2012

Re: Need to replace my mainsheet - What type of splice at en

Like Catsailor said. I can't imagine why you'd want to get a splice. A bowline will work fine (it's what I use on my 34) and you can swap the sheet around every year to reduce chaffing in a specific spot.

isaksp00 · May 27, 2012

Re: Need to replace my mainsheet - What type of splice at en

The only places I have splices are for the halyards. The sheets are down low, so you can always retie a bowline when needed.

Stu Jackson · May 27, 2012

Re: Need to replace my mainsheet - What type of splice at en

Agree, use a knot. You also don't need anything more than Stay Set for this, it's being adjusted all the time, unlike halyards.

Bill Roosa · May 28, 2012

Re: Need to replace my mainsheet - What type of splice at en

Kinda depends on Where you are intending to tie the knot does it not?
I know mine has the sheet end attaching to a becket with 2 other lines in close proximity to it so, while you could get a knot to work it would not be very salty and might interfere with / jam the other two lines. If there is only one line (to the boom I'm thinking) then knot it
For the record the"flemish eye" is usually used for wire rope. I suspect the guy at WM was not the "rope guy" and you would be getting a call asking if you really wanted a flemish eye on your "rope" once the rope guy got around to working on your order.

Saillife · May 28, 2012

Re: Need to replace my mainsheet - What type of splice at en

Sta set should be fine. Unless you're going to be sailing in the trades where you won't be adjusting the main sheet for hours (days?) at a time the stretch really shouldn't make a difference. Haven't priced rope lately but I believe the difference in price between sta set & sta set X is a good bit.

Dave Groshong · May 29, 2012

Re: Need to replace my mainsheet - What type of splice at en

Sta-Set X is the most miserable line ever offered, (in my humble opinion) wiry, stiff and not fun to handle. Most mainsheets do have an eye splice on one end, $20, so if you're trying to make a budget, there is nothing wrong with tying a bowline, an eye splice is just a bit stronger and more elegant.

I like 3/8 inch for a mainsheet on your size of boat, 5/16 is plenty strong enough, but the hand feel may be less than desirable.

We offer Samson XLS and many other lines, give me a call if you'd like to discuss this.

Dave Groshong
SailboatOwners.com
Toll Free 877-932-7245, Mon- Fri 9-4:30 Pacific.

Stu Jackson · May 29, 2012

dknape said:
So I will not splice the mainsheet, but rather use a knot.

Stu, are you saying TO NOT go with Sta-Set X and just go with a 5/16" Sta-Set?

Yes about the X - I agree with Dave.

Up to you about 3/8 or 5/16, but I'd go with 3/8 since, as Dave says, it has a better hand. 5/16 is pretty thin stuff, regardless of whether it is strong enough or not.

Steve Dion · May 29, 2012

Re: Need to replace my mainsheet - What type of splice at en

....and I would agree, "Sta-Set X is the most miserable line ever offered".

Check with the SBO store. They have good prices and service to match.

What type of a shackle do you have now? You can cut it off and send it to them or order a new one depending your setup.

captainpat · May 30, 2012

Re: Need to replace my mainsheet - What type of splice at en

The flemish eye would be un-necessary on the main sheet. It is a good idea, though not necessary, on halyards as a messanger line "attachment" place for removal of halyards for cleaning or replacement. You don't need tp pay to have it done. It's easy. Without getting specific,. decide how big or small you want the eye, measure in from the end and sew (seize) that spot. Sew through the line being sure to capture the core securely with the seizing. Roll back the outer cover to the seizing, cut off the core, unroll outer cover, fold back to form a loop and seize. You can find directions and pics on line.

Need to replace my mainsheet - What type of splice at end?

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