Rope Clutches--what to buy?

[Frank Gloss]

I am in the process of leading all my lines aft on my Catalina 22. I do not have a spinnaker, maybe someday I will. What brand, and kind of rope clutch should I buy? Any suggestions. Would a simple rope cleat do? It would certainly be cheaper.ThanksFrankWind Magic # 10446

 

[Matt]

Any of the clutches will do, provided you have the

right size for the line diameter. Spin-locks are not too expensive...

 

[LaDonna Bubak - CatalinaOwners]

Clutches

I would steer clear of the rope cleat. If you have more than one line leading aft to a winch, you'll have trouble transfering it to the cleat without losing some tension. I had that setup and hated it. I installed two double rope clutches forward of the halyard winches so I could stopper the halyard, *then* unwrap it from the winch, losing no tension.You can find decent used clutches at marine chandleries and swap meets for a steal. I think I paid $20 for the pair and they work just fine though are not as cool as others.LaDonna