The Comprehensive Guide to Replacing Your Boat's Lifelines

The Comprehensive Guide to Replacing Your Boat's Lifelines

Introduction

Your boat's lifelines serve as an essential safety measure that shouldn't be overlooked. These critical components can degrade over time due to exposure to environmental factors and mechanical wear and tear. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various materials, fitting types, signs indicating the need for replacement, and best practices for accurate measurements.

Lifeline Materials

Vinyl Coated 7x7 Wire

Pros

• Durability: The vinyl coating offers an additional layer of protection against saltwater corrosion and general wear and tear.

• Comfort: The smooth surface makes it easier and more comfortable to hold, reducing the chances of rope burn.

Cons

• Visibility: The coating can conceal underlying damage, making it difficult to assess the condition of the wire.
• Weight: Generally heavier than uncoated wires, possibly affecting the boat’s stability to a minor extent.

Uncoated 1x19 Wire

Pros

• Strength: Typically offers higher tensile strength, making it suitable for bigger or performance-oriented vessels.

• Inspectability: Without a coating, it's easier to spot corrosion, fraying, or other issues that might compromise safety.

Cons

• Comfort: These are generally less comfortable to hold, which could be a problem in emergency situations.
• Maintenance: Requires more rigorous cleaning and rust-prevention methods.

Synthetic Ropes

Pros

• Weight: These are considerably lighter, often important for racing yachts.

• Ease of Inspection: Simple to inspect for wear and tear as any weakening is immediately visible.

Cons

• Durability: Generally less durable than wire, more susceptible to UV degradation and abrasion.
• Stretch: More prone to stretching under load, which can be a safety concern.

Types of Fittings

• Swage Fittings: Traditional and cost-effective, but susceptible to internal corrosion.
• Swageless Fittings: Easier to install and better for DIY, they also allow for disassembly and inspection.
• Threaded Terminals: Generally used for synthetic ropes, these offer a strong connection but are more complex to install.
• Pelican Hooks: Essential for gates in the lifelines, they allow quick and easy opening but must be regularly inspected for wear.
• Gate Eyes: Used in conjunction with pelican hooks to create a secure but removable section of lifeline.
• Turnbuckles: Used to adjust length and tension for long runs on lifelines.

Signs You May Need a Replacement

1. Corrosion: If you notice rust or other forms of corrosion, replace immediately.
2. Fraying or Kinks: Visible signs of wire fatigue such as fraying or kinking are red flags.
3. Discoloration: In synthetic ropes, look for UV degradation, often indicated by fading.
4. Loose Fittings: Any movement in the terminal fittings is a sign of wear or failure.

Measuring for New Lifelines

Measuring accurately is crucial, especially since each lifeline is custom-built. Use a tape measure for precision; ropes are not recommended for this task. Measure both sides of the boat as dimensions may differ. If you're uncomfortable taking measurements, you can remove your lifelines, label them based on their location, and send them to us for duplication.

Reminder

All our lifelines are custom-built, and the onus of accurate measurement lies with the customer. SendIt Sailing is not responsible for any inaccuracies in the measurements provided. Please visit our Custom Lifeline Page for more information and to download a form.

By understanding the various aspects of lifelines, from materials and fittings to signs of wear, you're better equipped to make informed decisions that ensure your safety at sea. Remember, when in doubt, it's always better to replace than to regret.