Mixed rigging question

[svmystique]

I have to replace my lower forward shrouds due to a broken strand on one side. The current shrouds are 1/4 inch. I already have 4 5/16 sta-loks that I would like to use. Is there any problem with replacing the two 1/4 inch forwards with 5/16 inch rigging? I cannot see a problem but I'm not a professional rigger. The rest of the rigging is fine.

[Stumble]

It's probably a problem. The issue is that the chainplate pin holes are probably 7/16, where the sta lock for 5/16 wire is 1/2. So yes you can upsize, but you may need to replace your chainplates in order to make them fit.

[skipmac]

Originally Posted by Stumble

It's probably a problem. The issue is that the chainplate pin holes are probably 7/16, where the sta lock for 5/16 wire is 1/2. So yes you can upsize, but you may need to replace your chainplates in order to make them fit.

Correct. And in case you think of this, it's usually not a good idea to enlarge the holes in the chainplates.

[Snowpetrel]

Same deal with the mast tangs. On the oversize uneven rigging thing, in itself it shouldn't be a big issue if you can get it to fit. It might make the rig harder to properly tune due to the forward lowers being less stretchy than the rest of the rig, but probably not a big issue on a normal conservative cruisers mast. The extra weight aloft when you change out all the rigging could be an issue, prehaps a synthetic backstay might even out the total weights.

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[Stumble]

It should also be pointed out that except for a very small number of designs where rigging size is a known problem, there is almost no justification for increasing the size of the rigging. Replacing old worn out wire sure, but upsizing the wire is almost never worth it.

[model 10]

There sure are some "mixed rigging questions", like what is a strand or a wire? I have not seen one Nimrod on CF get it right yet. I'm sure many do know but are just too polite to bother.

[donradcliffe]

How old is the shroud with the broken strand? If its less than 10 years old, it would be better to increase its size to 5/16.

[svmystique]

Thanks everyone for the info. I've decided to just go with new 1/4 as the savings using the 5/16 sta-loks are minimal. I have two 5/16 (1/2 pin) and two 5/16 (5/8 pin) at a good price if anyone is interested.

[SVTatia]

Originally Posted by svmystique

...The rest of the rigging is fine.

Warning:
If one component shows signs of wear/fatigue, chances are others will follow.
This is perhaps a friendly, advance notice that its time to replace the entire rigging.
Just a thought.

[pcmm]

I would check the rest of the rigging. If 2 lowers have gone ( they are less loaded than the cap shrouds) then check the rest. Doing rigging is a lot less expensive than you think. I just replaced the standing rig on my morgan OI 41 ketch ( 12 stays in total) for only $3800 CDN taxes included! You don't have to pay a rigger to remove your stays. just take them in an have your rigging shop replicate.

Occasionally you might have to upsize the holes in your tangs. I have to go from 1/2 to 5/8 pins on my cap shrouds, but the original tangs were massive and had plenty of meat. My rigger even said it was OK to do so

your mileage may vary. all depends on your confidence level working on your boat!