Login or Register
| Rigging Terminals |
 |
 |
 |
| Sail - Rigging | |||
| Written by Johnny Routledge | |||
| Monday, 02 March 2009 20:14 | |||
 Most yachtsmen leave rigging to the experts - but swageless compression terminals allow you to do the job yourself.
DIY sailors have long been attracted to the concept of swageless rigging terminals, also known as compression terminals. Unlike swaged terminals, which require expensive dedicated machinery, compression fittings can be assembled with simple hand tools and so are worthy additions to any rigging spares kit... They can also be reopened and inspected periodically, and their proponents claim they can be re-used. In reality, however, once a terminal has been well and truly loaded, it can be difficult to pull apart.Assembling the terminals is fairly easy, however. The first time may seem difficult, but with only a little practice it becomes routine. At present there are three different types of terminals available, each of which goes together differently. The most common type by far are Norseman and Sta-Lok terminals. Blue Wave, from Denmark, produces Quick Attach terminals, and UK firm Petersen manufactures Hi-Mod terminals. A couple of tips apply to all these types of terminals. First, make sure you get a clean cut at the end of the wire to which you want to fit your terminal. Cable cutters work quickest, but usually yield a lopsided cut that will make putting the terminal on the wire much harder. It is best to cut the wire with a hacksaw (be sure to use a fresh blade) or with a grinding disk so you get clean, square cut. Next, always be sure you are using the right size terminal and appropriate parts for the type and size of wire.
|
0 Comments