Prindle 16 Bridle wire replacing

Wolf_6

Rank: Lubber

Registered: Jul 14, 2006

Last visit: Jun 10, 2009

Posts: 3
Posted: Jun 08, 2009 - 04:03 PM

I have a 1972 Prindle 16 and am quickly finding out that the original wires do not last long. I have to replace one of the bridle wires (actually I am doing both just in case and too ensure same length). Any suggestions on how to get the bow tang off easily? I actually bent a flathead screwdriver trying to unscrew one of the screws. Can I get away with only removing one side of the tang and sliding it under? Any other suggestions are very welcome.
Thanks,
Eric
Atlanta, GA

edited by: Wolf_6, Jun 08, 2009 - 04:15 PM
calcheck

Rank: Lubber

Registered: Oct 06, 2004

Last visit: Aug 31, 2015

Posts: 6
Posted: Jun 09, 2009 - 10:13 AM

I'm having the same trouble- and was told to just cut the old one off-with wire cutters, and attach the new one with a shackle- but I don't like that solution. John
HULLFLYER

Rank: Mate

Registered: Aug 06, 2004

Last visit: Oct 20, 2024

Posts: 878
Posted: Jun 09, 2009 - 10:20 AM

The anchor bar for the bridal wires are aluminum and the bolt is stainless steel, this is the main problem they are hard to remove. I cut the head of the bolt off to be able to remove. When I replace the bridal wire I also replace the anchor bar with a stainless steel one, put in a new bolt and I add a nylon locking nut as well.
Wolf_6

Rank: Lubber

Registered: Jul 14, 2006

Last visit: Jun 10, 2009

Posts: 3
Posted: Jun 09, 2009 - 10:41 AM

Hullflyer,
I knew I would have to cut off the bolt (already ordered new parts) but were you able to slip the wire in or did you have to loosen the top bolt? I am not sure what the top bolt has underneath and am afrtaid that once I loosen it I can never tighten it back.
HULLFLYER

Rank: Mate

Registered: Aug 06, 2004

Last visit: Oct 20, 2024

Posts: 878
Posted: Jun 09, 2009 - 05:24 PM

I did not try and loosen the other bolt that goes into the hull. I just bent it up enough to put the new bridal wire on, then put the new bolt on and tighten.
Wolf_6

Rank: Lubber

Registered: Jul 14, 2006

Last visit: Jun 10, 2009

Posts: 3
Posted: Jun 10, 2009 - 12:54 PM

Thanks...that is what I was hoping to be able to do.