Re: Rudder lines

Is there a picture of the return to shore elastic somewhere?

There's a shot of the Honcho system in the review at:

www.surfski.info/content/view/433/156/

Have you guys ever experienced having trouble with spectra? The only problem really is having a proper knot to keep it at the right tension. Worst thing is to have your knot loosen. The best knot for spectra (what I found anyway) allaboutknots.blogspot.com/2006/01/selec...trong-hitch-for.html

Steel cables actually dont break right, its the ferrule or clamp that usually loosens up. Advantage of spectra is that you dont need tools.

Sorry if this sounds dumb. But what is spectra?

I have just switched boats and I find the nylon lines give a much nicer 'feel' to the rudder pedals. I guess because the nylon is lighter than steel there is less inertia and the input and feedback is much more direct. You can feel the smaller currents working on the rudder through your toes and the rudder action is light and friction free.

Its also nice not to have a rudder box stained orange from rusty ferrules.

We all know you're in love Al, but this is starting to get a bit much. All this gushing... ;D

Sorry if this sounds dumb. But what is spectra?

Spectra is a new age fiber weave mostly used in fishing applications. I got mine in the US, $16.5 for around 25 ft, .040 in diameter. Its supposed to have a 400 plus pounds breaking point. Once having it properly tied, it will stretch 1 to 2 cm and that's it.

Think's Evo also uses spectra for its rudder line.

Spectra in perspective is Honeywell's trade name for a composite material made of UHMW polyethilene. For awhile the woven cloth form was used for building canoes/kayaks- don't know how that worked out. It was not too expensive and today should be comparable to kevlar. It is used also in making body armour. Those manufacturers might be a supply point. Hope this helps.

Good info. Thanks.