I was doing some work on one of my boats last night and noticed that one of the swages on one of my bridle wires was cracked, so I have to replace them. This got me wondering when was the last time that I replaced these wires. So, now I'm wondering if anyone has ever marked their standing rigging with an installation date. If so, what did you use? This would have to be abrasion resistant and able to withstand abuse for a couple years.
My current thought is to take a thin piece of stainless sheet. Engrave the year on the sheet and then wrap it around the wire and lightly crimp it. Any thoughts?
sm
My current thought is to take a thin piece of stainless sheet. Engrave the year on the sheet and then wrap it around the wire and lightly crimp it. Any thoughts?
sm
too complicated...
put a note in a file box in your house (do you have paperwork with your boat stored somewhere?- put it in there).
A specific date would be somewhat arbitrary as a time to replace them. Just inspect them, like you have done, occassionally.
My current thought is to take a thin piece of stainless sheet. Engrave the year on the sheet and then wrap it around the wire and lightly crimp it. Any thoughts?
sm
Sure would make a nice razor blade in a pitchpole.
Write in marker underneath a inspection port? I used to write the milage that I changed oil at on motorcyles and stick it under the seat. Along with when tyres were changed.
My current thought is to take a thin piece of stainless sheet. Engrave the year on the sheet and then wrap it around the wire and lightly crimp it. Any thoughts?
sm
Sure would make a nice razor blade in a pitchpole.
It SLICES! It DICES!
I had set up a system to remind me to change the standing and running rigging. I had used my birthday as the reminder date and did the standing rigging on the odd years and the running rigging on the even years. That was not to say that there was a complete R & R, but at least I know the last time it was done.
I agree that a specific date by itself is somewhat arbitrary, but knowing whether the rigging has been replaced one year ago or five years ago definitely plays into deciding whether it's time for a change. And for me, being able to find a scrap of paper with the date of my last shroud change four or five years from now is not very likely. Factor multiple boats into it and forget it. So having the info right on the shroud would be helpful for me. It's just like the oil change alalogy- if I didn't put a little mileage reminder on my windshield, I'd never change the oil.
sm
I find it easiest to keep a log book in my boat bag (canvas bag full of gear and tools.)
I carry the same stupid bag when I go rowing, sailing, or water skiing. It usually ends up in the trunk of the car. Either way it usually has a change of clothes, a notebook, a pen, a bunch of tools, spare parts, maps etc. Then when I get home I throw the bag in the hall closet.