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anne claydon · 28-02-2009, 21:57

I have been recommended to use a leaded anchor line [FSE Poseidon ]::*Teufelberger:*Poseidon

This being an alternative for a second anchor chain and rope.
Not sure about this, has anyone got any experience of this stuff?

Roger and Anne

Dreamweaver3 - about to cruise the east coast of Australia

delmarrey · 28-02-2009, 22:23

Haven't used it,
but is might be good on a sandy bottom. As for coral or jagged rock, I'd be worried. And how would it do around a capstan or thru a gipsy? The site doesn't give any product report.

Talbot · 28-02-2009, 22:46

Even with a weighted line, at least your first 5m should be chain, thus will minimise the risk of chafe on the bottom.

Personally I would rather have a rope that is easier to use such as octoplait, and use at least 10m of heavier chain even on the kedge.

**noelex 77** · 28-02-2009, 23:34

I don't understand the logic behind a leaded anchor line. Nylon rode has the advantage it is light allowing the use of a heaver anchor, or more weight close to the anchor in the form of heavy chain. Nylons drawback compared to chain is poor abrasion / chafe resistance.
Leaded anchor line would seem to have both drawbacks.

**GordMay** · 01-03-2009, 06:31

I’m with noelex 77 on this one, and would need a lot more convincing.

Blue Stocking · 01-03-2009, 07:24

Yep GordMay!!
Sounds like a Madison Avenue, 4:30 Friday afternoon, type of idea.

btrayfors · 01-03-2009, 07:37

Historical note: Irving Johnson favored the use of steel cable for his anchor rode on the 90' brigantine "Yankee", and had special provision to carry it.

Lots of reasons why this makes good sense, however, it's not practical for small vessels.

Hard to beat chain, particularly all-chain rodes fitted with appropriate bridles, IMHO.

Bill

**Jim Cate** · 01-03-2009, 07:52

Well, she DID say this was for a second anchor, so I can understand the reluctance to use another all-chain rode. But, I can also not see any reason whatsoever to use an expensive and questionable material in what could be a critical application. We have long been happy with having our second anchor setup with appropriate nylon plus a boatlength or so of 10 mm chain. This is fine for a stern anchor, and is reasonably easy to carry out in a dinghy if that unhappy situation come along. (Incidentally, we've found it nearly impossible to carry a chain rode out, even with a big RIB and 15 hp o/b.)

Cheers,

Jim and Ann s/v Insatiable II lying Gladstone Qld Oz

PS You didn't say what part of the East coast you would be cruising, and as you know, the condx in southern NSW are rather different than those in FNQ! Anyway, keep your eyes peeled for Insatiable II, and give us a hoy if you should see us!

Talbot · 01-03-2009, 08:01

Most catamarans use a mixed rope and chain system even for their main anchor, let alone for the kedge. You need to pay a bit more attention to chafe, but that was the only issue I had over the last 20+ years.

Highlander40 · 01-03-2009, 10:34

Cats tend to have high shock loads so at least 30' of nylon in the rode or snubber is good.

**Ancora Latina** · 02-03-2009, 02:34

Leaded anchor line is another « Marketing Gadget »...

The weight of lead is rather small – In the case of Poseidon rope, located in the first half of the rope.

This type of line can easily be replaced by a much cheaper combination of few meters of chain and a three strands nylon rope
– The chain will be far more efficient to avoid chaffing on the sea bottoms and the Nylon line will give more elasticity..

João

Talbot · 02-03-2009, 03:10

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ancora Latina

Leaded anchor line is another « Marketing Gadget »...snip..........much cheaper combination of few meters of chain and a three strands nylon rope

João I have to take issue with you on this one. a 3 strand nylon is nowhere near as good as octoplait (8 strand nylon).

When three strand is under big strain it trys to unwind. In certain circumstances the rope creates knuckles when the strain is relieved, rather than going back to its original form. The next time the strain comes onto the rope, the knuckle is a major weak spot.

In addition, a 3 strand is a horrible rope to stow without getting a lot of kinks, whereas the 8 strand is much easier.