How to Choose the Best Sailboat Rigging Hardware

Your sailboat relies on several pieces of rigging equipment to raise and lower the sails, change headings, and dock at the marina. But what about when you need new sailboat rigging hardware to replace old parts? And how do you know when it’s time to replace your boat rigging? 

What Is Sailboat Rigging Hardware?

Your sailboat rigging consists of a complex network of lines and rigging hardware, including t-bolts, turnbuckles, pins, and other fixtures. Your sailboat equipment should be free from cracks, corrosion, or broken wires in your lines.

Different Sailboat Rigging Types

There are several different types of sailboat rigging equipment on your boat that you should inspect regularly. Your sailboat rigging hardware might include:

• Chainplates -These plates fasten shrouds and stays to the sailboat’s hull.
• Goosenecks - The gooseneck allows the mast and boom to swing into place to catch the wind.
• Mast steps - The mounting plate for the mast base anchors through the deck or keel and secures through the mast steps.
• Rigging lines - The cabling used to secure sails, masts, booms, and other hardware consists of twisted strands of steel. Over time, these lines deteriorate and corrode, requiring replacement.
• Turnbuckles - Cabling that changes direction often passes through turnbuckles, which should be straight and not bent.
• Locking pins - Pins secure turnbuckles, bolts, and other hardware to lock them in place while in use.

How Often Should Sailboat Rigging Hardware Be Replaced?

Synthetic rigging comes with ratings and age statements for when each piece requires replacement. Most equipment also includes a mileage recommendation. Sailors who take their boats out more often may need to replace their equipment earlier than those who don’t sale as often.

There isn’t as much of a rule for stainless steel sailboat rigging hardware. While insurance companies don’t require replacement of rigging hardware at certain intervals, they do require that boat owners regularly inspect their hardware for weaknesses. You should replace corroded or damaged rigging immediately.

How to Inspect Sailboat Rigging Hardware

You must perform a thorough inspection of your rigging hardware regularly or hire a professional rigging inspector to look for cracks, corrosion, pitting, and broken wires. The steps you or your inspector should take include:

• Looking at the mast to determine if it’s standing up straight
• Inspecting all deck fittings and cabling
• Looking for broken wires, particularly at swages
• Noticing signs of cracks or pitting in the chainplates
• Looking for sharp edges, chips, or other areas that could wear through lines
• Using dye and non-destructive testing (NDT) to test for metal fatigue
• Inspecting first at deck level, then working up the mast to check upper level rigging

Only climb the mast to inspect if you found no deterioration at the deck and sub-deck levels during your inspection.

Greenshields: Here for All Your Sailboat Rigging Hardware Needs

When replacing your sailboat rigging hardware, used sailboat parts may not be safe. Instead, contact us at Greenshields Industrial Supply for your sailboat rigging supply replacements. We’ve helped our neighbors in Everett, WA find the right parts for over 60 years.Let us help you find your new sailboat rigging parts and cabling.