If I were to replace my lifelines today I'd go with Dyneema. I have one
piece of 1/8" Amsteel that I use to lash down the shank of my anchor.
It's been tied to the pulpit base for six years now, and is the most
heavily abused piece of rope on the boat. It sits in the Mexican sun
24x7, and the rusty anchor chain often runs over it when
raising/lowering the hook. When securing the anchor I wrap it around
the pulpit and shank, and pull it hard to get it good and tight, so the
rope is pulled over the rust and barnacles on the anchor. I thought
about replacing it this year because it's getting ugly, but didn't
because I think it's in good shape.
I've never really evaluated the cost. If bare SS lifelines last 15
years or more, how much would it cost to replace the Dyneema five times.
(Personally, I think every three years is excessive, but it depends on
how you use your boat.)
Locked Brummel splices are easy and fun. I just replaced the wire
harness for my radar reflector with itsy-bitsy-teeny-weeney Dyneema,
because the four of the six wires were broken from wiggling around in
the breeze, and learned to do 12 of those eyes. No problems. I'll bet
the Dyneema lasts longer than the wire did.
I'd make sure your stanchions have welded and polished holes for the
lifelines, and not just drilled holes with sharp edges.
Wal
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