What is Spare Lines & Line Stowage?
Spare lines are extra lengths of rope kept aboard for emergencies or to replace worn lines. A proper spare line inventory includes backup halyards (at least one spare that can serve as main or jib halyard), towing line, extra sheets, dock lines and general purpose line in various diameters.
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What it is
Spare lines are extra lengths of rope kept aboard for emergencies or to replace worn lines. A proper spare line inventory includes backup halyards (at least one spare that can serve as main or jib halyard), towing line, extra sheets, dock lines and general purpose line in various diameters.
What it does
Spare lines serve as insurance against line failure at sea. In an emergency, a spare halyard can be rigged externally to replace a failed internal halyard. Spare sheets allow quick replacement of chafed or damaged working sheets. Extra dock lines are essential for different docking situations or unexpected weather. A spare towing line may be necessary in case of engine failure. Proper stowage keeps these lines ready for immediate use, protected from UV damage or mildew during storage, and prevents a tangled mess that makes them useless when needed urgently.
Why it matters
Having a variety of lengths, diameters and stretch will provide you with options for unexpected line failures.
General Maintenance
Inspect spare lines annually, checking for UV damage, mildew and general deterioration. Rotate spare lines into service periodically, moving older working lines to spare status or disposal. Store lines in dark, well-ventilated spaces away from UV exposure. Coil or flake lines properly to prevent kinks. Check that messenger lines are in place for replacing internal halyards. Label lines by size and type for quick identification. Keep an inventory list of spare lines and their condition. Ensure line stowage areas drain and ventilate to prevent mildew.
Common Issues
- UV damage to lines stored in exposed locations
- Mildew growth on lines stored damp conditions
- Lines becoming tangled in storage, making them unusable quickly
- Spare lines undersized for actual replacement needs
- Lines with labels or tags that become illegible
- Deteriorated lines kept as spares despite being unreliable
- Insufficient variety of line sizes for different needs
- Lines stored kinked or with permanent twists
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