Best way
Hello,
There are three problems with 1x19 on thimbles. One is that 1x19 puts more load on less area, so thimble deformation or failure is a frequent problem.
Next, 1x19 is not happy with a tight radius; it is weaker when bent too much, so a wider than usual thimble is important.
Finally, turnbuckles and tangs nowadays are sized for 1x19 swages and the like, so you can't solve the above problems by going with oversize thimbles.
That's why Herreshoff pattern 1x19 thimbles are the best solution. Not cheap, but of course they last forever. Have you tried Port Townsend Foundry?
I have seen rigs with lighter, narrower thimbles. As Brian noted, some were fine, and some weren't, indicating that some boats are loaded more heavily than others. It's a bad idea to assume that the standing rig -- or any other boat component -- will be lightly loaded, just to rationalize taking a shortcut or making a cost savings. The rig is not there to suit your situation. Quite the opposite.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss
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