Messenger Line

[padean]

Pretty simple question, but does anyone out there have something specific they like to use for messenger line with taking down/up halyards and such? I have used a couple of basic small string lines from the local hardware, and had them occasionally break. I realize that there are places a small line can get caught, but wonder if any of you have found a particular line you really like for a ~ 40' mast.

[Tartan34C]

I use 1/8” solid braid nylon. It happens to be Samson but any brand will do.
All the best,
Robert Gainer

[sailingdog]

I'd second the use of 1/8" braid. Anything smaller will often jump the sheaves and get caught in places you're not going to free it from without going up the stick.

[rennisaint]

Has anyone tried parachute cord? It seems like a very economical solution. Very high strength stuff, but pretty stretchy...

[TrueBlue]

Doesn't really matter what you use, as long as it will withstand years of UV exposure and the load resistance for running doublebraid through your spars.

I really don't know what is used on my masts - have at least 6 messenger lines on unused main & mizzen sheaves, all there prior to purchase. They appear to be 1/8" braided nylon, in visibly good shape. Hopefully they will prove to be sound, if and when I ever need them.

[Omatako]

I hope this doesn't qualify as hijacking a thread but just a useful tip I learned to put messengers into the mast.
Connect a piece of ordinary ball-type bathplug chain to the messenger, drop it in from the top of the mast. The weight of the chain makes sure it goes straight down and when it gets down alongside the hole that you want to pull it through, stick a thin manetic tipped tool into the mast to "grab" it. It works a treat.
Cheers
Andre

[sailingdog]

Window sash chain or bicycle chain generally works better, since it weighs more and can overcome the friction of the sheaves more easily.