Lifeline Pelican won’t open

[Secondshift]

Originally Posted by Zanshin

Have you tried needle-nosed pliers and turning/twisting the pull-pin?

+1 on twisting.

In the photo the lifeline does not appear overtight but check there first. I've had that issue with the old style.

Sometimes a new component can stick due to minor imperfections from
the manufacturing process. Eventually these can "wear in" and smooth out.

Try a spray lube and repeated twisting agitation. I'd start gently with a marlin spike or similar and work my way up to Vise Grips if need be. Whatever it takes to get it moving.

I've used Bartenders Friend to clean and polish the internals of some older components but I wouldn't start there. Though mild it is an abrasive.

Tapping directly on the pin may help. Brass, aluminum, or wood will not mar.

If you can't get it working it may as well be broken.

Good Luck!

[HopCar]

Offer it a fish. Pelicans love fish and will open right up.
Sorry, all the real answers were taken.

[sailingchiro]

Squeeze the mouth shut to take pressure off the pin. Happens to me all the time.

[JD-MDR]

Originally Posted by donradcliffe

I was on a new boat last week and experienced the same issue. Pressing the clasp together solved the problem, which I never had with older versions.

One of mine does that. I have to compress the hook a little and it works fine.. I think radcliffe is saying the same thing.

[Letterkenny]

Thanks all. When I get back to the boat on Friday I’ll give these a go. If I strike out, I’ll have them do a warranty claim on it as I’m also having trouble with my bathing platform shower (likely kinked but can’t be assed to go back and fix for a new boat with warranty).

[David B]

Originally Posted by Letterkenny

Anyone have tips how to get one of the pelicans to open on your lifelines? My wife and I can get it to open for the life of us. It was fine and is on our new boat so not rusted or corroded.

They work well normally.
Two things. If it is under tension, the pin jams, and if a little corroded in there, same thing.

Squeeze the catch closed, then twist and pull the pin. It should work out. If not, spray with penetrant and try again in a few minutes.

Be aware that stainless steel is like aluminium - it galls. So keep the pins lightly lubed with something decent like Tefgel, and you will be fine.

Also, replace the original split rings with decent ones, and tighten up the lock nuts.

[CdS2 Roland]

Hello,
I have this kind of Pelican on my life lines.
And like you it took me time to find out what's going on.
Here is the solution. You must rotate the axe about 1/4 turn before pulling on the ring and miracle it opens. Nothing is worn-out.