[RoyB]

I have a 38 foot racer/cruiser - a Sydney 38. She has wheel steering. The wheel directly drives a sprocket with a short chain. The chain connects to vectran single brade lines at each end. The ends of the vectran lines have metal eyes spliced into it on each end. The other end of the metal eyes connects to the quadrant with some bolts / nuts.

The vectran line is connected to the chain by a multi-loop lashing made from what looks like small (about 3 mil) spectra single braid. There have been instances of steering failures on these boats. I suspect that the lashing may be the weak link.

I've been considering replacing the lashing with a stainless turnbuckle and a couple of shackles that would connect it to the vectran and the chain. Obviously I'd have to make sure that the turnbuckles fit with no interference or rubbing.

Can anyone think of any reasons why this would not be a good idea?