SparTalk - GybFlex Line Replacement

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GybFlex Line Replacement

We have a Wichard GybEasy Boom Brake on our cruising sailboat. During a recent crossing, I foolishly replaced a 1/2-turn shackle with a straight shackle on the GybFlex line turning block. Oops! The line chafed through and now needs replacement. It was always too short, and we had tied on a piece of smaller line to make it work: the original line is only 52-ft long. So, we'd like to replace the "official" line with something for which we can purchase as much as we wish. Are there opinions on the line that we can use? Simple 3-strand? Climbing line, since the device looks for all the world like a climber's figure 8?

Hi,
Static climbing line would probably be a good option; dynamic might be too stretchy, and more chafe-vulnerable. What does Wichard recommend?
Fair leads,
Brion Toss

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brion Toss (Post 6925)

Hi,
Static climbing line would probably be a good option; dynamic might be too stretchy, and more chafe-vulnerable. What does Wichard recommend?
Fair leads,
Brion Toss

From the manual found here http://www.wichard.com/documents/notice_gyb_easy.pdf

Quote:

1) Concept :
Gyb’Easy, the Wichard boom brake uses a specific line called Gyb’Flex passing over the boom brake itself. Thanks to its unique
technical features and the frictions on the brake, the boom is allowed to gybe smoothly. The Gyb’Flex rope absorbs the shock
loading. The gybing operation is controlled only by tensioning the Gyb’Flex without any action on the main sheet.

and

Quote:

3) Limits of use, maintenance and precautions of use :
Limits of use: Gyb’Easy has been designed for a mainsail area under 40 m². CAUTION: good results are only guaranteed when
used with the specific Gyb’Flex line supplied. If replacement of the line becomes necessary, you must use the same type of line
(part # 7148). Please contact your local stockist.
In order to ensure your safety and perfect operation of the boom brake, it is recommended to regularly check the line for wear
and replace it after 5 years.

Not much info here except the part #

Yes, thank you for the thoughts. I believe that I'll bite the bullet and purchase Wichard part number 7149, a 25- Gyb Easy line. Sigh. Seems best to follow their recommendations.