I went to a friends 27 ft. boat today help him adjust his standing rigging. This is a fresh water boat and had plastic (vinyl) turnbuckle boots and snap on vinyl cable covers over the shroud lines. When I had to raise the turnbuckle vinyl covers I found them full of water with a lot of organic growth and mater. I do mean GROWTH. After flushing and cleaning up this mess I inspected the shroud adjusting gear and line with a jewelers type of loop. Aprox. 50 power and the corrosion was very apperant and quite advanced. When I asked about the last time it had been checked or inspected I learned that it was about 10 years ago when the mast was re-stepped after transport. I know that the fault for this is totally with the owner, but the fact remains that the covers hid the problem. It's also proper to say the holding of water within this cover is his fault, as the green stuff prevented draining this area. Regardless of who's the culprit, the boat was in a very unsafe condition. Where lies the next boat that has this problem? These items are appealling for their ability to assist the presentation impact of the boat. That impact won't get you to shore if the item fails. I hope this articule will help other owners to inspect their boats. Ray S/V Speedy