Mast Support Cables

Be gentle I'm a newbie, question, my new to me hobie 16 has nylon rope covering the mast cables, I've seen a coulple like that but not many. What is the purpose of this? it doesn't appear to be structural.

Thanks,

Mike

Rope? There may be a coating or a plastic sleeve over a bare wire. This helps to limit wear on the sails where the wires come in contact.

Coated wires have been standard for many years (80's?)

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

By the way, those "Mast Cables" are shrouds. Should be two of them, one on the Starboard side and one on the Port.

Also is it possible that a PO wrapped the shrouds in nylon rope in an attempt to cover 'old' uncovered wires? Who knows. At any rate, if you don't know if they were ever replaced, then probably time to put new shrouds on. In general they should be replaced every 3 years or so if sailed regularly.

EDIT: And don't be afraid to ask questions. We were all newbies once upon a time!

_________________
Jim

2007 Hobie Wave