Braided tail improves hold on rode
Issue 60 : May/Jun 2008
A simple running (or rolling) hitch, used to attach a snubber to an anchor rode, may have difficulty in maintaining a good grip on the rode, but a braid formed at the end will improve the grip.
To form this braid, whip the end of the snubber approximately 20 inches from one end. Unlay the rope back to this whipping and separate the strands into three groups (three-stranded rope will automatically unlay into three strands). Braid these three groups of strands together. Place a whipping at the end to prevent the braided portion from unlaying. A double whipping will add more security from unlaying.
This braided portion will now take a hitch that readily grips the anchor rode.
Rudy and Jill Sechez have lived aboard and cruised for 10 years, beginning with a 36-foot wooden cutter they built, and currently with a 34-foot sail-assist troller yacht they designed and built. They finance their cruising by working when funds run low . . . mostly on boat-repair projects. They write for pleasure.
Thank you to Sailrite Enterprises, Inc., for providing free access to back issues of Good Old Boat through intellectual property rights. Sailrite.com
