Standing Rigging Sizing

[Pitterpatter]

Hi,

I am looking for some advice on replacing the standing rigging on my new to us Westerly Fulmar (fractional rig). The standard rigging size is 7mm, with the exception of the backstay which is 6mm. Our local rigger, an industrial rigger in the dockyard, has said they would need to get 7mm made up by their supplier which will be expensive, as they do not have the 7mm kit. However, they can do 6 and 8mm for much less. Can anyone see any issues going up a size for the 7mm and using 8mm instead - assuming all pins will still fit correctly?

The only potential issue I can see is that the larger rigging will stretch less as the backstay is tensioned - or is the point of having that larger in the first place to stop that happening?

Thanks, and Merry Christmas to all as it's that time of year!

 

[VicS]

If you use 8mm dont increase the tension. Set the tensions the same as you would have done for 7mm or you may overstress the boat.

 

[savageseadog]

7mm sounds a little large for the size of boat and rig you could consider Dyform 6mm. Don't take that as expert advice, suggest you ask Allspars or other riggers.

 

[claymore]

As you rightly say - assuming the pins will still fit. I think 7mm would be ample for a Fulmar

 

[Pitterpatter]

Thanks for the replies. I've checked the rigging I have taken off and it is all 7mm (except the backstay) as per the spec. I realise that 7mm is probably more than enough, but I'll trust Mr Westerly's reasoning.

My query is more to with what are the downsides, if any, of going up a size from that specified? Financially, going up a size will cost less, but is there anything else I should be thinking of other than the bank balance?

Thanks

 

[KenMcCulloch]

The original rigging specs for our boat were (from memory) 8mm for shrouds,back & forestay, 7mm for runners and cutter stay. A previous owner 'upgraded' to 10 and 8 as part of his prep for an ocean voyage. The extra weight aloft is not noticeable and it's good to know the rig is as bulletproof as it could be. I would not see any downside in going from 7 to 8 mm so long as the new bottlescrews fit the chainplates.