Sheet stopper wears halyard

[SEMPERAVANTI41]

Hi, I have noticed that my sheet stopper has worn my main halyard to the point it no longer holds. When I raise my main sail with my winch and then close the toggle, the halyard will slip around a foot before it holds. Is there any line that may be more abrasion resistant? I don't know the brand of line I am using other than it's 1/2" dacron double braid that does not seam to stretch.

 

[dlochner]

Some sheet stoppers are more aggressive than others, so the better option in the long run might be replacing the sheet stopper.

Sta-Set X has been a mainstay for halyards for many years. A newer alternative is NE Ropes VPC. You can go down a size (to 7/16") and get the same strength or more with even less stretch. The cover is dacron, which is probably the same cover that you have now.

If the halyard is long enough and in good enough shape to continue to use, then try end for ending the halyard. You'll have to cut the headboard shackle off and tie it back on. This will give a fresh section of the halyard for the stopper to grip. Or you could just cut off a couple of feet of halyard at the shackle end, this will move the worn spot away from the stopper.

 

[Gunni]

The halyard clutch easily carries the biggest load on the boat. How old is your clutch. Yale MaxiJacket coating may help you out, but you may also be ready for a clutch rebuild or new. A worn clutch cam can tear up a line.

 

[Joe]

If you're using it as a clutch ... i.e. pulling the line through while closed... that will tear up an expensive piece of cordage faster than a DT insult.