keel cable replace

[sailor1]

new to me 1984 mac 22. had to replace the keel cable. got 3/16" 7x19 strand t316 ss cable and t316 cable clamps. almost done installing it, one question is how tight should the clamps be? seems no info on torque specs. thx

[OverEasy]

Hi Sailor1!

Looks like general hardware cable clamps.
Technically there isn’t a spec torque on that kind of hardware other than tight as you can without stripping the threads.

Don’t be surprised if the u-bolt rusts as it’s just flash zinc, not galvanized. Marine supply sources can provide you with Stainless Steel ones that will last longer.

Whenever I use these type of cable clamps I add a real split lock washer between the nut and the cast body. If I have the room I try to add a second split lock washer and second nut to each side.

The little sheet metal lock washers quickly not only lose their capability to hold a nut but they also rust away quickly leaving the nut(s) to freely spin off…. You can see how that might be a bit awkward…

Best Regards
Over Easy

[Jimmyt]

I would use this table, or similar. As OverEasy indicated, you want it as tight as you can get it, without wringing it off.

https://www.fastenal.com/content/feds/p ... Torque.pdf

Not trying to be picky, but you may have installed the clips backwards. The saddle should not be placed on the dead end of the wire rope.

An article you might find informative: https://e-rigging.com/blogs/how-to/how- ... rope-clips

[Be Free]

The spec I use for those clamps is "good-n-tight". That's a little tighter than "really-snug" and a little less than "really-tight".

[sailor1]

Hi JimmyT, yes, thanks for noticing. I realized my mistake last night (saddling the dead horse) and fixed it.

Hi Over Easy, the clamps are type 316 stainless steel

[OverEasy]

Hi JimmyT!

Excellent link to the proper use of cable clamps!
Thanks for posting that!

Best Regards,
Over Easy