My 1987 Hunter 23 standing rigging looks like its in pretty good shape but I have been reading that the life expectancy is about 10 years. So should I be replacing it even though it looks to be in good shape. Is this something I can do myself safely? Comments from those who have done it would be appreciated. Brian
Standing Rigging Replacement?
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Standing Rigging Replacement
All standing rigging has a life expectancy. None is more important than the forestay. The failure of the forestay means certain loss of the rig unless you happen to be sailing downwind at that moment when there is no load on it and realize the situation. Because this is the only stay holding the rig forward and knowing that it must be replaced in time, I would opt for sooner rather than later. It is a relatively easy job to do but in many cases will require dismantling the roller furling system. This is not such a bad idea either for it allows complete inspection of all components. Take the old stay to your rigger and have him make a new one based on the old. Be aware that the new stay will be slightly shorter due to something called initial stretch which he will factor in to the new one. Ten years is a very conservative life span but will almost assure you will never experience headstay failure.
All standing rigging has a life expectancy. None is more important than the forestay. The failure of the forestay means certain loss of the rig unless you happen to be sailing downwind at that moment when there is no load on it and realize the situation. Because this is the only stay holding the rig forward and knowing that it must be replaced in time, I would opt for sooner rather than later. It is a relatively easy job to do but in many cases will require dismantling the roller furling system. This is not such a bad idea either for it allows complete inspection of all components. Take the old stay to your rigger and have him make a new one based on the old. Be aware that the new stay will be slightly shorter due to something called initial stretch which he will factor in to the new one. Ten years is a very conservative life span but will almost assure you will never experience headstay failure.
Better Safe than sorry
I agree with Alan . A few years ago based on this thinking , I started replacing my standing rigging . I did the forestay one year , then the uppers and then the lowers . When I was through with the process the rigger I used to make the new rigging said he does not usually recommend replacing rigging unless it shows signs of wear . The little broken strands that show up is what he said he uses as a guide . After he told me that I still felt better knowing my rigging was new . I recently sold the boat but I know that the person who bought it has a sound boat . Mike
I agree with Alan . A few years ago based on this thinking , I started replacing my standing rigging . I did the forestay one year , then the uppers and then the lowers . When I was through with the process the rigger I used to make the new rigging said he does not usually recommend replacing rigging unless it shows signs of wear . The little broken strands that show up is what he said he uses as a guide . After he told me that I still felt better knowing my rigging was new . I recently sold the boat but I know that the person who bought it has a sound boat . Mike
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