Edd, Most commonly sold halyards and control lines are either polyester double braid or some type of high modulus core (Spectra, Vectran, Dyneema, etc). The cover yarns are almost always made of polyester and that material isn't much different than what is found on cross cut cruising sails (Dacron). So, the cleaning process isn't much different... Things to avoid: 1.Bleach. Polyester and bleach are not compatible and using bleach will result in a rapid deterioration of both cover and core yarns. 2.Washing machines. Running a line through the washer will put unnecessary twist into the rope. High modulus ropes, in particular should never be washed in an agitator or spin type washer. 3.Storing the lines wet. If you have green growth on your lines, chances are they've been sitting in water.
Suggested cleaning, at least from my company, is to rinse the lines at the end of the season to remove accumulated salt and dirt. If the lines are heavily soiled or have "green growth", scrub the lines with a medium brush in mild soap and water (Ivory liquid has few harsh chemicals and cleans well). Hang the rope to dry either in sunlight or in a warm dry area to avoid mildew or ice build-up. It is also a good idea to inspect the rope for pulls, hard spots, chafe or flattened areas, specifically on halyards where the line bends arounds masthead sheaves or gets run through rope clutches. Let me know if you have any rope specific questions. Chuck Gilchrest S/V Half Magic 1983 35 Landfall Padanaram, MA (Novabraid USA) -----Original Message----- From: CnC-List [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Edd Schillay via CnC-List Sent: Tuesday, May 9, 2017 5:53 PM To: [email protected] Cc: Edd Schillay <[email protected]> Subject: Stus-List Moldy Lines Listers, As I prep the Enterprise for launch on Thursday, I noticed some of my halyards and control lines have a green moldy tint on them. Anyone know the best cleaning solution to use to get them back to normal? All the best, Edd ----------------------------------- Edd M. Schillay Captain of the Starship Enterprise C&C 37+ Sail Number: NCC-1701-B City Island, New York ----------------------------------- 914.774.9767 | Mobile ----------------------------------- Sent via iPhone 7 iPhone. iTypos. iApologize _______________________________________________ This list is supported by the generous donations of our members. If you wish to make a contribution to offset our costs, please go to: https://www.paypal.me/stumurray All Contributions are greatly appreciated! _______________________________________________ This list is supported by the generous donations of our members. If you wish to make a contribution to offset our costs, please go to: https://www.paypal.me/stumurray All Contributions are greatly appreciated!
