Winterisation/Storage of running rigging.

[mikehibb]

Just a quick question about storing the running rigging.
Well not exactly the storing, but what is the best preparation for the running rigging before winter storage.

What is the best method of washing/cleaning? is it just a gentle wash in light soapy water or stick it all in the washing machine and then hang out to dry?

Any special detergents to use or avoid?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Twister_Ken]

About 19 different versions of this. I can only say what works for me.

Leave to soak in the bath (or other tub) for a day or two, with lots of Biotex stain remover dissolved in the water.

 

[VicS]

In the washing machine on a gentle wash programme. Mainsheets with blocks permanently attached in an old pillow case.

Take care with some ropes with a plain core and plaited outer sheath as I have had those end up with the core poking through the sheath. (Probably they were past it anyway)

Any detergents that are suitable for washing synthetics will be OK. An oxy bleach such as Vanish will be OK as well but do not use a chlorine based bleach

Best to do it when swmbo is not around though.

2 down 17 to go.

 

[wotayottie]

Wot Vic says.

Like him I have ended up occasionally with cores appearing from inside ropes with woven outers, and I also managed on one occasion to shrink all my reefing lines. Nevertheless, the washing machine is your friend.

Spliced in shackles can usually be dealt with by winding the other end of the rope through the shackle sufficient to protect the inside of the machine and then knotting it. You are unlikely to damage the shackle anyway but you dont want to have to waste good sailing (or drinking ) money on buying her indoors a replacement washer. And if you are foolish enough to suggest she goes back to the peggy tub instead, well you will need both boat and rigging to escape to safety.

 

[damo]

To add to what VicS says - loosely chain-coil the ropes before you wash them, it keeps them from tangling or kinking.

The core protrudes because the sheath weave tightens slightly and shrinks back, so ensure the ends are properly heat-sealed.

And anyway - it is a WASHING machine, not a CLOTHES-ONLY machine, surely /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[bigwow]

I use a non bio ,LUX on SWMBO's advise. In fact she does them for me, it is her machine after all.

 

[Leighb]

I always wash mine in the machine, only addition to above is I put each load inside an old sailbag, very tightly knotted, serves two purposes.
1) helps protect inside of drum from shackles etc.
2) seems to reduce the amazing tangle that ensues if you wash ropes in a machine.

 

[mikehibb]

Many thanks all.

I like the idea of the old pillow case etc, however it looks more like a soak in the bath might be more appropriate as the washing machine is brand new, unless I can send SWMBO off for some retail therapy for the day. On second thoughts, that could be more expensive!!!!

Also I need to replace the UV strip on the genoa as it is an ex-charter boat (strip is in good condition, but I want to change the livery back to original) SWMBO has recently bought a new sewing machine, Now you can guess what I am thinking....

No, I am not as daft as I am cabbage looking, I guess it would be safer to pay for the local sail loft to do this. A lot cheaper than a DIVORCE.

 

[Searush]

Domestic sewing machines CAN cope with sails - up to a point and provided you have the correct needle & set it up correctly. You will need to read the handbook carefully and have a piece of test cloth. But too many layers will break the needle & stall the motor.

I add fabric softener when washing sheets - it makes them nicer to handle!

 

[VicS]

[ QUOTE ]
Also I need to replace the UV strip on the genoa ........ SWMBO has recently bought a new sewing machine

[/ QUOTE ] There is no way I would risk SWMBO's sewing machine on a sail. There will be places where there are many layers and I can still remember how much I paid for the machine.

A friend paid about £350 ish go get a new sunshade strip and some other work, including washing, on a Westerly Berwick genoa last year. A lot less than the sewing machine cost never mind the divorce.

 

[mikehibb]

Thanks for the latest tips regarding the UV strip and SWMBOs sewing machine.

I have no intention of using it. As I said earlier I am not that daft.

 

[Gunfleet]

Leather needles do the trick from sailcloth right up to acrylic in a domestic sewing machine.

 

[castaway]

Loads of H/duty sewing machines on Ebay lots are refurbished and amazingly cheap..more a case of having somewhere to use/keep set up than cost.

Regds Nick.