[Brian Duff]

No comment on the spreader itself. I don't think you've mentioned what size Columbia anyway.

The cotter pin to retain a slack shroud could remain, and I would leave it in place or even 'upgrade' it to a bolt or clevis pin. We normally use some sort of metal fastener, be it a captive design spreader tip, a retaining pin, or monel wire, to secure the shroud INTO the spreader tip. Then we use tarred nylon twine to secure the spreader from moving up or down via a lashing from the cable above to the cable below the spreader tip, back and forth enough to suit the loads. The lowest load should be considered as a man standing on the spreader, it will happen when someone climbs aloft.

Enjoy.