Anchor Rope

[Cessna172]

Greetings,

Time to change out the anchor rope on my C28.

Selecting the correct rope has been more challenging than anticipated. Why, well it must be my total ignorance of the myriad types of ropes out there.

The Factory has been helpful with sizes; however, brand and exact type remains allusive. Using the factory size recommendation I purchased a spool of Sea Strand 3-strand 5/8" at 200 feet. The new rope arrived. After comparing closely with the original, the new rope seems slightly smaller and very much softer.

This made me dig deeper. Some 3 strand Nylon ropes, which look very similar to the Sea Strand rope are identified as "Not intended for Windlass Use". Surprise...!

This begs the question, which 3-strand nylon ropes are "intended for windlass use"? As an additional thought, I called my local Marine store. The representative stated that all 3-strand nylon ropes are OK with windlass use and that the rope will harden and thicken with use.

My head hurts,
Gary

 

[Salty7]

If it fits the gypsy and the windlass can pull on the line without slipping I am sure it will be fine. It will harden after use in saltwater and having some tension on it.

 

[knotflying]

I prefer 8 plait and you can also fit more than 200 feet in the locker using it. Being in the PNW you may want more rode and chain. I would call Defender, I believe they will make up whatever you want. Here is a link. https://www.defender.com/product.jsp?path=-1&id=7954963

 

[FlyMeAway]

My recommendation would be only buy Samson (30+ years of sailing experience; I know a thing or two about rope). I would recommend Pro-Set (their three-strand) over the double-braid alternatives for our application. Pro-set is one of the best anchor and docking lines ever engineered.

I personally would not use 8-plait unless you are anchoring in mostly calm conditions. The reason three-strand is the default anchor line is because of its excellent elasticity over its length which makes for the most comfortable conditions at anchor. 8-plait also absorbs more water which is apparently an "advantage" for some people (it "falls" better in the anchor locker), but I would bet those people have never had to haul up an anchor line by hand after a windlass broke. I've also never had a problem with line coiling neatly in my locker, but YMMV.