[C320-list] Halyards: clean or replace

[allanfield47 at gmail.com]

Hi Scott - I found the cheapest and a most-effective way to clean these lines was to let them soak in the Bay for a few hours (this won't work in fresh water), lay them out on the dock and spray them with fresh water, turning them as you spray to get all the salt water off, then allow them to sun-dry.  I learned this while cruising French Polynesia 2 years ago on a friend's boat! - Allan

-----Original Message-----
From: C320-list <c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com> On Behalf Of Scott Thompson
Sent: Friday, June 28, 2019 11:38 AM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Halyards: clean or replace

My main halyard is pretty grungy, particularly the part that sits out in the weather when the boat is not in use. I switched it end-for-end a few seasons back to take advantage of the fact that the cockpit tail was still in good shape. I'm wondering if anyone has had success cleaning halyards. I do not race, and as far as I know I still have the original halyard. It appears to be in good shape apart from dirt, mildew (or whatever that green stuff is), etc.

I have the same issues with my rarely used spinnaker halyard. Less so with the genoa halyard since less of it sits out in the weather over the course of a year.

The yard suggested I replace all of the halyards, but if there is a safe way to clean them without compromising their strength that seems preferable.

BTW, if I do replace, what do people like in the way of replacement line for a boat that does not race?

--
Scott Thompson
Surprise, #653