Hey Y'all,
I need to replace my main halyard on my SOlCat 18. . I don't race or anything. . just go cruise on the weekends. . does anyone have any suggestions as the type of line I should use? I am thinking a 3/16", but wanted to see what you all would consider as well.

Thanks

3/16" is a pretty small diameter line, I'd use a 5/16" line with a polyester cover.

Dave

Danget. . so much for proof reading. . thanks for that input. . i meant to say 5/16". . but you suggest a polyester cover eh? Got a link to something like that by chance?

I use APS and Layline

Rick probably sells line on this site as well.

Suggestions:

Marllowbraid or Trophy Braid both have a polyester cover and core. The Trophy Braid has a fuzzy cover, might be better on the hands. The polyester cover is durable and polyester core is cheap. Stay away from anything with a polypro cover, nice line but it doesn't hold up.

Does your halyard double as your downhaul line? This is the case on a lot of boats, especially those not rigged to go racing. The downhaul is generally regarded as a set and forget item on these boats, also. In this case I recommend against fuzzy jacket line and go with the smooth, since it will have less friction going through those little tiny blocks they use for the downhaul. You will only handle the line when you hoist/drop the main and downhaul it on the beach anyway, and you can wear some gloves for that. Very low stretch line helps here, too since you'll lose downhaul tension as they day goes by otherwise.

Jimbo

my main halyard does NOT also act as as a downhaul. . my rig has a seperate setup for that. Anyway. . thanks for all the suggestions. . looks like i'll be putting in an order for new line here VERY shortly :-)

Sorry I misread your post! You're looking for a main halyard.

Forget everything I said before. 3/16 is what you want to use. Cheapest polyester line you can find.

Damn oldtimers!