winch cables

[ralphl]

when did boaters decide to switch from unbreakable steel cables to nylon straps for winches. Pure dollars or is there some advantage I'm missing??

 

[NYBo]

Re: winch cables

Here is all the info and opinions you could possibly want on the subject:
http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=337574&highlight=cable+strap

 

[ralphl]

Re: winch cables

WOW thanks

 

[JB]

Re: winch cables

First of all, "unbreakable" steel cables break if overloaded, they also rust and develop fangs that wound terribly. Their strength declines as individual wires rust and break.

Straps also break if sufficiently abused but they are much safer.

 

[ajgraz]

Re: winch cables

When I was a kid I watched a snapped cable open up my dad's arm. Strap only for me!

 

[jeeperman]

Re: winch cables

If you like cable but do not want the disadvantages of cable, you can go synthetic cable.

 

[Yellow Yota]

Re: winch cables

when did boaters decide to switch from unbreakable steel cables to nylon straps for winches. Pure dollars or is there some advantage I'm missing??

I would imagine it's a combination of product price, ease of handling (No jags ripping your fingers), ease of use (cable doesn't always roll up on the drum evenly), and aesthetics.

Most are happy with the straps. Some die hards want their cables. Choose what you want and "roll" with it!