Does anyone have any input on how to clean some lines and make them softer, like in a 5 gallon bucket, or agitator-less washing machine?
I haven't ever done anything with my lines and they feel stiff, and not soft really I guess, they aren't bad, just wondering if there is anything I can do to make them better?
Mac
I put mine in a mesh laundry bag (Target) and wash them on regular cycle, hot water, in the machine. Add a little bleach if they are really discolored. Works like a champ, no need to dry them.
Wes
How do you know when it is time to replace a halyard or sheet? Mine are stiff and have some greenish discoloration mostly the last 3 feet or so nearest the shackle. I've read that washing with a bit of fabric softener will soften them up, but am really more interested in whether they weaken with age and become more likely to fail.
When I did boat work we looked for fraying, solidity, stiffness.
So if it isn't frayed, look for core damages, if none, then stiffness / hand of the lines.
Sometimes washing them out will cure that stiffness, which is the current issue really with mine. so ill try washing them first off then see from there. I do know mine don't need replaced, but I like a line to be easily workable overall.
Mac