Not knowing any better, I assume that all fittings done correctly work well. However, in regard to swaged terminals, one might read Don Casey's (This Old Boat) opinion and his experience concerning swaged terminals. He cites several reasons for their failure. He recommends Cone terminals. He did not mention Nicopress firttings.
I have only one swaged terminal (open turnbuckle) required for a CDI furler. Jerry M built the forestay for me and I have complete confidence in his workmanship. My 1975 M-17 came with Nicopress fittings. Although the boat has never been in salt water, at least since 1980 and I replaced some of the standing rigging a few years ago, all rigging and fittings were in excellent shape. I bisected the Nicopress fittings and wire rope, examined them with a 10X loupe and could detect no corrosion or other degradation whatever. Frankly, I replaced all fittings with Nicopress sleeves and thimbles because I did not know any better. Perhaps if I knew then about cone terminals, I would have used them, although they somewhat pricey and require some skill and care in attachment. Admitted, compared to swaged and cone fittings, Nicopress fittings are as ugly as a mud fence. But they are simple, completely visible, easy to install (with a good crimper) and work just fine--so far. I still have a lot to learn about sailboats. Bill K M-17 # 55 Half Monty _______________________________________________ http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/montgomery_boats
