Spectra Backstay

[LarryE-old]

The new rule states Spectra or similar aramid line.
Is Vectran legal?
What is the line of choice, for the members that have changed over?

[Tom Elsen]

Larry

The rule was worded to enable members to choose from a variety of 'high tech' fibers as the core in the bckstay line. Vectran, other aramids, and other products are legal.
The intent of the rule is to specify very strong covered lines. We do not want people using under-strength non-covered lines in this critical application.

[LarryE-old]

Thanks Tom.
A word of warning to us who sail all year in the Florida Sun. I snapped the Vectran backstay, yesterday. Overkill when I but it on, three years ago. Just talking Friday night that I should replace it.
No damage.

[fleck]

Tom,

Where does it specify a 'covered' line.

BTW. I don't see why the kicker is required to upgrade the backstay to a spectra line, or the 'pinch' to a cascade.

[Tom Elsen]

Bob, you're right. I was writing without first reading. The requirement of 'cored' line was my idea and it didn't make it into the final rewrite. My mistake.

Quite obviously, this line should be a part of a regular replacement schedule though. Likely every other year.