Recommended size line for traveler?

[Bob S]

I need to order some line for my new Garhauer Adjustable fairleads. I am looking at 5/16 XLS Yacht Braid from Defender @ .59/ft. I need about 35' each side. Can I use the same to replace my 16 year old traveler lines? Is 5/16 a good diameter for feel? I think it currently has 3/8.

 

[Windy City]

Line size for Garhauer Traveler

I need to order some line for my new Garhauer Adjustable fairleads. I am looking at 5/16 XLS Yacht Braid from Defender @ .59/ft. I need about 35' each side. Can I use the same to replace my 16 year old traveler lines? Is 5/16 a good diameter for feel? I think it currently has 3/8.

Yes, I'd go with 5/16. I just added Garhauer Traveler, Mainsheet, Rigid Boom Vang and EZ Glide Genoa turning block system. I learned if you want the systems to glide easily, it's best to use as small a line as is practical. Large lines add considerable drag and put the brakes on multi-block systems. You need to compromise between comfort to the hands and a good running system.

 

[Bob S]

Thanks Windy, already ordered it.

 

[Stu Jackson]

Good, Bob, 'cuz U did the right thing. I went up to 3/8th and found that over time the line swelled, blocking the, ahem, blocks. The smaller line is fine with the monstrous purchase that the traveler blocks provide.

 

[jrowan]

I want to replace mine too. The hard part is running the new rigging in an identical fashion to the original setup. I guess I'll take some good closup pics before hand as a reminder. Once it gone. its gone. I wonder if U sewed on the tail end of the old to the
new line, couldn't U run the line through the blocks that way & avoid messing it up?

 

[Windy City]

running new line

I want to replace mine too. The hard part is running the new rigging in an identical fashion to the original setup. I guess I'll take some good closup pics before hand as a reminder. Once it gone. its gone. I wonder if U sewed on the tail end of the old to the
new line, couldn't U run the line through the blocks that way & avoid messing it up?

I sewed new line to the end of old using dental floss. Waxed sail thread would also work good. I did this to replace the internal halyards. You're right, pictures work great for the mainsheet etc.

A trick I used on the mainsheet is to use a triple block with a cam cleat that Garhauer made for me. In light air I use the cam cleat and can let the go easily. In heavy wind you can still use the winch on top the starboard cabin top at the other end of the sheet.

 

[LuzSD]

we are just now getting ours replaced also and downsizing to 5/16. I am excited to have it move much more smoothly..... can't wait!