Radar reflector spreader halyard

[Sixbrothers]

I would like to install a halyard from my spreader for an Echomaster radar reflector. I purchased a spreader halyard kit (CC Johnoson) but the kit calls for drilling holes in the spreader which I really do not want to do. Does anybody have any suggestions?

[NavySailor]

Originally Posted by Sixbrothers

I would like to install a halyard from my spreader for an Echomaster radar reflector. I purchased a spreader halyard kit (CC Johnoson) but the kit calls for drilling holes in the spreader which I really do not want to do. Does anybody have any suggestions?

Don't blame you, I wouldn't either. First thought that comes to mind is 2 clamps for each bolt that was to go through the spreader. A clamp that goes around the spreader and another that goes through that clamp and around the fastener on the reflector.

I'm sure someone has done an install that has worked. I hope they post 'cause I'm curious about this as well.

[hphoen]

You could use a lashing around the spreader arm to hold the halyard block.

[gc1111]

I drilled the holes. I assume these are just big enough for a #8 sheet metal screw. I don't think that will weaken my spreader enough to bother. And it has been through some pretty severe weather since then.

[Idiens]

I've got four spreader halyards, two each side, each with its mounting eye pop-riveted onto the lower half of hollow aluminium spreaders.

One has carried an Echomax for many years. The snag is not the spreader or mounting strength, it's the wear on the halyard. Now I have the Echomax shackled onto the mounting eye and the halyard block below the Echomax to both provide an extra flag halyard and to stabilise the Echomax.

Nevertheless, the Echomax mounting needs regular inspection and the shackle replaced, as it wears through in a few years swinging.

Here's a picture

[Sixbrothers]

Thanks for the ideas. The picture was great.

[dave6330]

What about assembling it around the rigging on the upper shrouds? This is the route I'm planning on going...not that I have any special insight, it just seemed easier than installing a flag halyard just for the radar reflector.