Spectra for Swing Keel Pennant?

[tager]

I am considering replacing the swing keel pennant on my little 22' with spectra line. Does anybody know where I can find good information on spectra line? I hear it is stronger than stainless cable, and I imagine it would stand up better when fully submerged for long periods.

What have you all got to say about spectra for this application?

[sailingdog]

Spectra, vectran and dyneema based lines can all be stronger than their equivalent diameter stainless steel wire rope, with about the same amount of stretch. However, it does have the problem that they're not as chafe resistant as stainless steel wire rope. Provided you've made sure all the sheaves and such are smooth and clean, so as not to chafe the line, I'm sure it'd work quite well as a swing keel pennant. One thing to consider is how you are going to terminate the line so that it is protected from chafe at the attachment point.

[JohnRPollard]

I would stick with stainless wire. Chafe alone would worry me - even if you have a nice smooth/fair run, you can snag material when sailing along that could become problematic.

Also, I would want to research whether they would be better than stainless wire in an application where they are submerged/saturated for long periods of time. It may be that their properties are diminished when constantly wet?

[sailingdog]

JRP—

Depends on whether the pennant stays inside the swing keel trunk or not. If it is completely within the swing keel trunk, then it might be okay. If it extends out past the trunk when the swing keel is fully extended, sticking with SS is a better idea.

[knothead]

I can't disagree with anything said so far.
Some of my customers who were having a major problem with electrolysis have decided to go with line. Surprisingly, I haven't had any of them return and mention that they had a chafe problem. Of course, it's only been a few years so far.
One thing about using line that may be an advantage is; it's might be easier to make up a new piece from line than wire. If someone sailed in an area where they can dive on their boat, they might carry enough extra to replace it themselves when needed.

I wonder, what do people think is a reasonable lifespan for a centerboard pennant?

[sailaway21]

I'd probably stay with the wire rope. I wouldn't use anything though that, I myself couldn't splice or was known for being difficult to splice or make end fittings for. Keep it simple. Keeping it inexpensive isn't bad either. (g)

[sailingdog]

Very wise advice for almost anything on a sailboat.

Originally Posted by sailaway21

I'd probably stay with the wire rope. I wouldn't use anything though that, I myself couldn't splice or was known for being difficult to splice or make end fittings for. Keep it simple. Keeping it inexpensive isn't bad either. (g)

[tager]

Looks like I am going with the stainless steel cable. I guess there is no reason to experiment when the tried and true route is cheaper!