Standing Rigging Scantlings

[QUester51]

I have an Ed Monk design cutter rigged sloop much like the Mariner III (44x 13, 37,000disp) except it is a center cockpit. The person I bought it from used the wire halyard for the head wire. I need to replace this with the right 1x19 wire and am wondering what size to use. I am thinking somewhere between 3/8'' and 1/2''. any suggestions on size or where to find scantling standards for wire rigging. Google was of no help.
Thank you,
Tony

[Jim Cate]

G'Day Tony,

There are too many variables to give a definitive answer. I'd look around at other boats of similar size and displacement and rig, check what size wire they use. My guess is that 10 mm would do just fine (a bit larger than 3/8 "), and that 1/2" would be heavy overkill.

You might just ask a local rigger, too!

Cheers,

Jim

[osirissail]

Check with Brian Toss. He is a recognized "guru" on rigging and especially older types. He has great books and DVD's available to help you D-I-Y.
Brion Toss Yacht Riggers, Sailboat Rigging

[QUester51]

Thanks for the suggestions. I will contact Brian ASAP.