Centerboard pennant replacement

[john churchill]

I just bought a Bristol 35.5 that has a broken 7x19 3/16" stainless wire centerboard pennant. Seems as though it will be a fairly challenging task to replace as it is not engineered for service.

I did a search here and found no info, but I am aware that some racers are now replacing wire standing rigging with synthetic fiber and am considering the same with my CB wire. I was thinking Dyneema might be a good choice. Planning on using 4 mm size which is stronger and less stretch, UV resistant for that portion between the sheave and winch is good and it is reported to have good abrasion resistance. Additionally, if tied to the board with a knot rather than a splice, it should be feasible to dive on it and "freshen the nip" every year or so without hauling out.

[Robbie.g]

Your on to it.
Many boats around here have replaced their centerboard pennants with synthetics, for the reasons you point out. Probably also because the cost is low as the line is becomming very common for boat trailer winches, (every other person around here has a trailerable tinny). Just look out for chafe issues, and keep in mind that these types of line don't hold knots well.
Cheers
Rob