Wheel Thimbles for Synthetic Line Terminals

A commercial or DIY synthetic line terminal will go easy on the line while adding strength to a standing or running system.

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This is not a completely new concept. Spool thimbles have long been used on multi-pulley block beckets to increase the pin diameter to better suit typical sized polyester rope. But Dyneema puts a new spin on it. The rope is no longer as wide as the pin, and off center loads weaken shackles and pins, and the block or assembly may be pulled slightly crooked. If there are any sharp edges, the rope will not just contact them but be forced against them by the off-center pull.

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Drew Frye
Drew Frye, Practical Sailor’s technical editor, has used his background in chemistry and engineering to help guide Practical Sailor toward some of the most important topics covered during the past 10 years. His in-depth reporting on everything from anchors to safety tethers to fuel additives have netted multiple awards from Boating Writers International. With more than three decades of experience as a refinery engineer and a sailor, he has a knack for discovering money-saving “home-brew” products or “hacks” that make boating affordable for almost anyone. He has conducted dozens of tests for Practical Sailor and published over 200 articles on sailing equipment. His rigorous testing has prompted the improvement and introduction of several marine products that might not exist without his input. His book “Rigging Modern Anchors” has won wide praise for introducing the use of modern materials and novel techniques to solve an array of anchoring challenges.