Spreader Questions

[JKCMBOAT]

After unstepping the mast the other day, I decided to pull off the old spreader boots as they are heavily weathered and in need of replacement. As figured, it is a mess under the boots. Can anyone tell me the proper way to secure the stay back into the spreaders (if there is such a thing)? This is all very new to me. Attached below is a photo of what I found. As you may be able to see in the photo there was a metal cable (carbon steel?) placed thru the left/right holes and wrapped around the stay to secure it. Also, can anyone tell me if the new Taylor Made spreader boots I just purchased are good/bad/equal as compared to the standard rubber boots? I could only find one review which rated them good. We're doing a complete overhaul on the boat and they are within our budget.

Again, thanks for any help.

Joe

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

Joe;

You will want to use stainless steel siezing wire only which you can check with a marine supply store for example This site, west marine, boat yard, sail loft, sailboat club members, cable companies, etc. versus buying a whole bundle of it.

I would make a few wraps on the shroud as close to the spreader (make sure the end is bent around the shroud and then thru the hole of the spreader tip and thru and around the other side of the shroud. I then would go back thru the hole and then over the shroud crisscrossing to the other side and then one more time . I would then wranp the siezing wire on the opposite side from where you started. This of course if the hole in the spreader tip will allow you to do so and make sure you take a pair of pliers and bend that end around the shroud.

As for spreader boots, that is also a good one too but make sure to wrap tape aroud the ends or over the spreader tip. For added protection, I used a tie wrap and then taped over it.
Crazy dave condon

 

[JKCMBOAT]

Crazy Dave,

Will do. Many thanks for your assistance again.

Joe