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Catalina/Capri 25/250 Sailor's Forums

Catalina 25 Specific Forum

Line sizes

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hewebb
Admiral

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USA
761 Posts

Initially Posted - 02/06/2012 : 08:43:31

My halyard is just under 5/16 so I plan to replace with 5/16 line. The furler line checks 1/4. Is there any reason to change the sizes for either line?

1988 WK/SR w/inboard diesel Joe Pool Lake
Hobie 18 Lake Worth

Life is not a dress rehearsal. You will not get another chance.

Edited by - hewebb on 02/06/2012 08:44:28

John Russell
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
3444 Posts

Response Posted - 02/06/2012 : 09:21:29

Probably not. However, the feel in the hand of a larger diameter line might make hoisting a bit easier. But, you trade weight aloft for comfort. That doesn't really mean anything to me because of the kind of sailing I do but, to others, it makes a difference. You need to know the sheave size to be sure they will accomodate the different size line. Similarly, for the furler, you need to know that the furling drum will hold larger diameter line if you should choose to go that way.

Edited by - on

dmpilc
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
4593 Posts

Response Posted - 02/06/2012 : 09:45:30

5/16th line is a good size for the halyards; not too big and still feels good in the hand. I like Nova-Tech XLE line available on Ebay from this guy:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/190632557553?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649
This is just one of his offerings. Click on his store name for others.

From what I've read here on the forum, 1/4" line seems to be the preferred size for furlers. As John indicated, going larger depends on the size of your drum.

Edited by - dmpilc on 02/06/2012 18:44:59

Lee Panza
Captain

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USA
465 Posts

Response Posted - 02/07/2012 : 08:20:05

Probably isn't a critical factor in your decision in this case, but just the same: consider the device that will secure the line. A typical horned cleat can handle a wide range of line sizes, but a clam cleat or a clutch is designed for a limited range. A more important consideration may be the handling of the excess when you go to release a hanked-up coil: a stiffer line tends to tangle a little less easily than a really supple one, although the latter might be more comfortable to handle and might kink less. This is an issue related at least as much to the line material (and to your line-handling practice) as the size, so give it some thought.

BTW, original Catalina spec was 5/16 "low stretch" for the halyards (3/8 for the spin. halyard), 3/8 for the sheets and the vang, and 1/4 for most of the other strings. I don't remember seeing a size recommendation for the furler line, but - as already pointed out - that would vary with the unit. As you'll see if you search the archives of this forum, people have had success with a variety of variations on sizes and line materials, so the final choices are largely personal.