thanks for the crystal clear answer Brendan! :)

:: A few comments on using Spectra lifelines on Express
:: 27s:
::
:: 1) No knots: when the class allowed spectra lifelines,
:: it was specifically discussed that they must be
:: terminated with proper splices. I've seen several
:: lifelines terminated with knots, which reduces the
:: strength of the lifeline by 1/2.
::
:: 2) 3/16" minimum. 1/8" Spectra is not suitable for
:: Express 27 lifelines.
::
:: 3) Strive for SK-90 or better. Using regular Amsteel
:: (SK-75) is problematic as it will creep and need to be
:: tightened almost every time you sail.
::
:: 4) Chafe protection! This is the single biggest risk
:: with spectra lifelines. You cannot run them through the
:: stanchions without some chafe protection or they will
:: quickly be worn through by the stanchion. Even so, chafe
:: will occur and wear your lifelines out much more quickly
:: than wire.
::
:: 5) Lashings are fine for terminations. 1/8" spectra (of
:: any type) is suitable. Spectra lashing is fine for wire
:: lifelines as well. Spectra lashing is cheaper, easier
:: and likely stronger than turnbuckles, and is the
:: standard on modern lifelines.
::
:: 6) "Continuous" just requires that the lifelines run
:: from the aft stanchion all the way to the bow pulpit.
:: They can actually be discontinuous pieces that are
:: properly attached to each stanchion.
::
:: 7) Aft stanchion support: With wire lifelines, many
:: people run the lifeline through the aft stanchion then
:: straight down to the toe-rail (with a sharp turn at the
:: aft stanchion. This will not work with spectra
:: lifelines--they will quickly chafe through at that
:: point. You pretty much need a discontinuous piece to
:: support the aft stanchion from bending.
::
:: The best way to terminate spectra lifelines to the aft
:: stanchions is to have stainless "rings" welded to the
:: top of the stanchion (rather than the holes with tubes
:: that most stanchions have).
::
:: Finally: despite the promise of spectra being lighter,
:: cheaper, and easier to replace, think twice about using
:: spectra lifelines on Express 27s. The constant creep
:: requires constant adjustment to meet the class sag
:: rules, and inevitable chafe requires much more frequent
:: replacement than for wire. Doing a good job with spectra
:: with proper chafe protection typically costs as much or
:: more than using wire.
::
:: I'm going back to wire lifelines the next time I replace
:: mine.
::

:: --brendan

::
::
:: :: We are replacing our life lines with Spectra.
::
:: :: Could anyone share their attachment method and how they
:: :: are adjusting the tension.
:: ::
:: :: Thank you