20 year old wire

[Gary]

Hi all,
I just purchased a Bristol Channel Cutter. When I did I was under the impression that the wire in the rig was about 12 years old. The wire is overisized 1x19 316. Specs call for 1/4-9/32. This is all 5/16. The ends are spilced over solid bronze thimbles. Well I just now learned that the wire is 20 years old. With wire splicing what is the recommended replacement interval?

I know she orginally had a trip to the Sea of Cortez. But since then she has been on a mooring in So Cal and not sailed very much. The rig is starting to weep rust down the hull here in the caribbean. Not bad mind you, but it's there.