Topping lift sheave size on Hunter 36

[AndyL]

My 2004 Hunter 36 manual specifies a 5/16" topping lift line but I'd like to use a 3/8" line. Does anyone know whether a 3/8" line will be OK or will it be too thick for the masthead sheave or some other part of the in-mast routing?

Thanks.

 

[sail sfbay]

3/8 inch low-stretch line, like Samson XLS Extra...........installed them on my Hunter 386 and 46.

 

[AndyL]

Thanks. Looks like 3/8" is the size recommended in the manual for the 386.

For my boat, 5/16" is recommended so I'm trying to understand if going up a size would cause problems with the sheave or anywhere else.

 

[sail sfbay]

I would try it and find out or download the mast manual to confirm sheave diameter.

 

[chuckwayne]

Escape was rigged with a 3/8 line by the dealer, works fine; should be the same mast if you have in mast furling. my manual also calls for 5/16

 

[jssailem]

Your Hunter, do you have the topping lift terminated at the mast or is it run back to the cockpit?

There is a good chance the builder used the same sized block sheeve as they did at the top of the mast. I sense you are not relishing the climb to check the sheeve size. See is your proposed 3/8's line will fit nestled down in the deck turning block sheeve. If it is too big there it is likely too big at the top of the mast.

Curious. Why you want to change to 3/8's. Have extra hanging around. It is not a line you handle frequently. Hand feel is not an issue.

 

[AndyL]

Curious. Why you want to change to 3/8's.

I plan to use the topping lift as the second line when going up the mast. If I choose to use something like a climbing ascender on it, 5/16 is marginal and 3/8 would make me feel better. Just looking for options.

I could go up and check but the current topping lift looks pretty old so it means I have little confidence in it as a safety line.