Technical Editor Ralph Naranjo’s recent market survey of mechanical rigging terminals in the June 2015 issue of Practical Sailor demonstrated just how long these terminals can last if they are installed correctly. That report came close on the heels of rigger Brion Toss’s photo essay on what can go wrong if they are not assembled correctly, or assembled without any sealant.
What is interesting is that some of the makers of mechanical terminals do not make it entirely clear on where they stand with regards to sealants. Some recommend using a caulk or sealant, but don’t specify the type—and as we know from our previous sealant tests, there are many.
One company, Hi-Mod, advises that installers use Loctite 262 or a similar thread-locking compound to prevent galling. Hi-Mod makes no mention of using a sealant in the installation guide. StaLok, on the other hand, advises that the terminals be sealed, and Sailing Services, a Miami Rigging company who has consulted PS in the past, suggests Life Calk. The Sailing Services website offers a detailed description of the StaLok installation procedure. Read More
