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Boot
Key
Harbor An On-Line
Cruising Guide for the Florida Keys & Cuba |
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The tire acts as a Giant Shock Absorber to take some stress off the lines during surges and wind gusts in a Hurricane. Here the piling is concrete with sharp abrasive corners so using the chain eliminates the chafe on the line too. - submitted by Cdr. G.T. Absten, AP We like the security of the concrete posts, but are worried about chafing through the line. Since our canal faces into the open water of the harbor we are also concerned about surges and stress on the lines causing them to snap. To solve this problem with our stern lines we use the rubber tires between the boat lines and a chain around the concrete piles. First we duct tape all around the old tire to make it easier (cleaner) to work with and provide more chafe resistance to the line. Then we place chain around the piling and through the center of the tire using a "C" link to join the free ends of the chain. Finally the stern lines are pulled as tight as we can get them and tied through the opening in the tire. When the surge builds up the tire stretches to provide some give, but is very strong and secure. (We also have about 16 other lines on the boat besides these stern lines). To read a complete article on Hurricane preparation, CLICK HERE. |
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Boot Key Harbor website created and maintained by Capt. Gregory
T. Absten, Marathon. - A Boater's Guide to the Florida Keys & Cuba |
