Lubricant for rope

[Krusty]

New rope is usually pliable and handles easily, but can be difficult to grip. I believe the reason is the fibres/yarns are lubricated early in the process of manufacture, presumably for efficiency or quality-control reasons. Something in memory tells me the lubricant is, or used to be, oleic acid.
Anyway, as it washes out or wears away the rope becomes easier to grip but also less pliable, even with regular and thorough fresh-water soaking to remove salt.
Does anyone know if I am right about the lubricant being oleic acid, and whether it is available in a form that could be used for re-lubricating old dried-out rope?
The particular application I have in mind is for 'through-boom' reefing pennants.

 

[alan006]

I've not heard of this, however a good way of keeping ropes in good condition is putting them through the washing machine. Best to do it when SHMBO is away and if you put some fabric conditioner in that will help as well.

 

[Krusty]

I've read previous posts about using the washing machine, but my complement of cordage would need six to eight loads, so I have always preferred soaking and treading them in the inflatable full of soapy water, then siphoning off and rinsing with a hose.
However, fabric-conditioner might be a very good idea! Thanks.

 

[GMac]

It's not an acid more a light machine oil which is a bit water soluable.

Wash well with fresh cold or luke warm water. Empty bucket. Refill with freash water and a double dose of fabric softener, soak for a day or 2 stiring occasionally.

Don't use bleaches and harsh stuff as some can eat some rope making materials. Don't use hot water (heat anywhere actually) as that can accelerate the hardening of some materials especially nylons.

Washing machines are good but have 2 big downsides many find -
1 - easy to get a real big nasty knot
2 - The missus especially if washing your rope to chain anchor rode /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif