Running Rigging Services

About Running Rigging

As with the modern high-tech standing rigging that is now the norm, today's running rigging systems often breed complacency. This is potentially dangerous. You should not forget that halyards, sheets, guys and vangs are often under tremendous pressure. They are turned around winches, subjected to extreme loads and used in applications where cyclic loading is necessary.

We can service all aspects of your running rigging including Halyards, Topping Lift, Jib Sheets, Main Sheets, Boom Vang and Dock Lines. Feel free to contact us with your running rigging requirements. To assist you in assessing your requirements we have provided some useful tips below.

Regular Inspection

You should not forget that halyards, sheets, guys and vangs are often under tremendous pressure. They are turned around winches, subjected to extreme loads and used in applications where cyclic loading is necessary. It is very important to inspect them regularly and to replace them if they look suspect. When towing your boat, make sure that all of your lines are neatly coiled. You should realize that whenever two different materials are joined, such as a wire-to-rope splice, there is a potential weakness. It is therefore necessary to inspect these splices whenever the opportunity arises.

Preserving your Rigging

A good tip for getting the most out of new polyester ropes is to soak them in soapy water before they are used. This not only makes them more supple, it also stops them from slipping on winch drums. Alternatively, lightly sanding the ropes with sandpaper will also stop slippage.

Care and Feeding of Rigging

Try not to put your running rigging away soaking wet. Blocks should also be looked at regularly. Look for slow-running sheaves, shackle elongation, extreme rust, metal stretching and stress cracks in the metal or plastic cheeks. Cleaning your block thoroughly will prevent most problems.

Care and Feeding of Blocks

As with your running rigging, avoid leaving your blocks damp with saltwater. Using lubricants such as Teflon or dry silicone are a good way of keeping dirt out of the mechanical workings. Note that tropical sailing conditions require more conscientious maintenance than the colder climates.