More modernization

Another project I completed last month was installing new lifelines. However, instead of replacing the aging coated wire that I had originally, I have replaced them with 1/4" Amsteel lifelines. Amsteel for those of you who might not know, is a super high strength, very low stretch synthetic line. It is often used in rigging for racing boats due to its low weight. It is also UV resistant, which means it can stay out in the sun and not fall apart as a lot of synthetic materials will. and it also floats! Cant say that for steel lifelines.
The best part of using Amsteel is the amount of Hardware required for install was next to nothing. Each end is spliced with an eye that is attached to a shackle and the gate is a simple pelican hook that provides the tension for the lifelines when they are engaged. Its a very simple setup, but it works great and I keep getting compliments on good it looks.

In addition to the lifelines, I also extended the stern pulpit rail to the gate on each side of the cockpit. Each length was a straight run of 1" stainless steel tubing about 58" long, which is perfect for one of my next projects. Installation of solar panels! I plan on having one 100W panel attached to the pulpit via rail clamps and attach them in such a way as to have them flip up and down as needed to catch the sun (think like stubby wings).