Ratlines

[gill]

I'm installing RIgger's Apprentice ratlines between 1/4" stainless shrouds and have a bit of slippage when jumping down onto the wooden rungs. The shroud twists, unscrewing on the lashing, as the rung moves down. Is there an intermediate solution between lashing tight and serving the entire shroud? Tar on the end of the rung? Friction tape under the end of the rung? Another way to put additional tension on the tarred nylon? I used teak for the rungs and the endgrain provides no bite.

[Ian McColgin]

1/4" is a bit small for ratlines. Siezing in the way of the lashings helps. It's gotta be really firm. Make a siezing hammer or strut to pull it tightly enough and maybe practice a bit first. Maybe make the verticle dimension of the steps a bit longer to give a better bearing surface.

G'luck

[Brion Toss]

Hello,
Yes, you are trying to put a lot of weight onto a little surface area. Try a series of three Double Constrictors, hove tight with two mallets, stacked under each rung. Not appreciably faster than service, nor as pretty, but will do the job. It's also how we secure spreader tips, as well as D-rings for chest-high lifelines.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss

[gill]

Finished with intermittent service as suggested; 4" for the wooden and 3" for the rope rungs. I've now mastered the buntline hitch, marlinspike hitch and constrictor knot. Looks great. Thanks.

[Gutterpunk13]

I also have a question if anyone can help me. I am planning on installing ratlines on my 17' Fiberglass daysailer and was wondering if anyone with more experience could tell me if I will run into any problems. Aside from having to take them down for trailering.

Thanks for your help

John