Who has cordage for lifelines? Lessons learned?

[mangomadness]

I'm re-building my deck so I removed everything. I plan on replacing the lifelines with high tech cordage. I know
1. UV is an issue
2. Chaffing at stanchions is an issue
3. Lifeline cushion necessity is an issue
3. Disgrunted neighbors with knives is an issue, however.

I'm doing it anyway. I will use these Johnson splice line fittings for the terminal ends

Johnson Marine Hardware Online Virtual Catalog: Page 7

I will use 5/16" of something and re-enforce or wrap the cord where it engages the stanchion hole.

I will obviously include lifeline inspection into my pre-flight checklist.

I want to know if anyone has knowledge of the best(opinion) line to use, and why.

Technology has produced some spectra/dyneema/vectran/ lines that have SBL of upwards 18k pounds. That are pretty and don't rust.

hit me with your thoughts.

[sailingdog]

Most of the dyneema/spectra/vectran-based lines are really chafe resistant, and as long as you don't have any razor-edge burrs, they'll probably do just fine. BTW, I been using Dyneema-based fishing line for about 10 years, and the stuff is amazing...it can actually abrade ceramic line guides on fishing rods.

[SCoffshore]

Any of the lines will work, be it a coverless line, or the core out of a double braid line. The coverless line will have some UV protectants on it though. Just go to your local chandlery and use whatever they stock, therefore you can easily replace it.

[Uglydave]

3. Disgrunted neighbors with knives is an issue, however.

Who are these disgruntled neighbours and why are they carrying knives? Is it because you are using this new fangled non traditional line for your lifelines. Or are there heaps of lifeline hating neighbours out here just waiting for you to switch to cutable lifelines because they cant afford bolt cutters?
or are your neighbours disgruntled for some other reason, cant you gruntle them and your problems will be solved?

[jbondy]

We used Amsteel three years ago and have had no issues whatsoever. We did nothing to prevent chafe where they pass through the stanchions and have yet to see any indications of such. We also used the Johnson hardware and have no complaints.

Regarding gruntling the neighbors, we've tried it. It doesn't work. Once they become disgruntled, they can't go back. Kind of like circumcision.

[mangomadness]

No tips or lessons learned Jbondy?

[jbondy]

When circumcising, hold the knife very steady. Accuracy counts!

When replacing lifelines with rope, it was as easy as it sounds like it should be. We spliced the lines to the fittings. I leave them slack during the winter, during which they shrink a bit. Not too much to reconnect, though, at which time they stretch out too a nice and taut. By th end of the summer, if not adjusted, they slacken a bit. Like I said, three years and no signs of chafe or UV damage. Recommended.