Topping Lift Cable Crimping

[Neil McDonald]

The topping lift on my H35 consists of a SS cable fixed at the mast head, with a short section of cord connecting the lower end of the cable with the outer end of the boom to provide topping lift adjustment. I am now installing a bimini and need to shorten the SS cable to provide additional clearance.

The lower end of the SS topping lift cable consists of an eye formed by bending the cable over a thimble which is then secured by crimping it in place with a sleeve where the end returns to the main cable.

I will rent a crimping tool but the rental company referred me to a local hardware store for the crimping sleeve. The store sells suitable looking aluminum sleeves.

Question..... is aluminum an appropriate material for this application or do I need to go and find something more exotic?

 

[RichH]

Aluminum - not hardly.

You want 'at least' a COPPER-NICKLE oval swage sleeve.
http://www.jamestowndistributors.co...d=288&familyName=Oval+Sleeves+-+Copper/Nickel

Many DIY swaging terminals available to do such a job:
http://www.jamestowndistributors.co...=Suncor+316+SS+Quick+Attach+Eye+Swage+Fitting

DONT use Aluminum swage 'ovals' .... unless you promise to wear your helmet !!!!

 

[Don12364]

The process is known as 'Talurit'.
Use copper sleeves for stainless wire and aluminium for galvanised.

 

[richk]

Neil

I know this doesn't answer your specific question and I'm sorry, because I like my questions answered, but here goes...
We have an H35 as well and chose to eliminate the fixed topping lift, opting for an adjustable one. We have a Dutchman system and had to buy new hardware for that in addition to some line and fittings. The advantage we see is it's much easier to move the boom vertically and still maintain controll of the topping lift. The disadvantage is it cost us time and money to change it. However, the original topper which we replaced was in dire need of replacement...it was quite ratty looking.

Rich

 

[Mike1956]

Here's a link to Aircraft Spruce. I rebuilt all my standing rigging a couple of years ago, and they sell the some swaging tool that the marine distributers do but way less money. Go figure, an airplane tool cheaper than a boat tool. Same manufacturer. I also recommend using two oval sleeves anywhere theres a high load.

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/topages/swagingtool.php

 

[Joe]

My choice would be to forego the topping lift entirely for a nice new Garhaurer rigid vang. Problem solved!

By the way....... this is why WM pisses people off so much... here's their swage tool

same as above... add $20.00

http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wc...toreNum=10102&subdeptNum=10242&classNum=10243