Securing Spreader Tips

[John Reeves]

Hi Brion

When I tie double constrictors on the shrouds to try and fix the spreader tips vertically they rotate down the 1x19 shroud. Am I missing something?

Thanks

John

[Ian McColgin]

In my experience a constrictor knot, whether with marling or wire and even if snugged up with leverage from opposing pliers, gets only limited tightness. If you don't use that lovely tool Brion advocates, use a quality stainless or monel siezing wire and a good steel tool (I use the eye in my Myerchin marling spike) to make the wraps really tight. They won't move then.

G'luck

[Brion Toss]

Hi again,
The Clamptite tool is indeed lovely, but 3 double constrictors, pulled utterly tight, should stay put, if they are right up next to each other. We have tested ours by jumping up and down on the spreader tips.
As for having no constraints at all at the spreaders, it is not only possible but likely that the leeward shroud will escape. Vertical fixity might be less of a problem, given stout enough support at the inboard end.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss