: For anyone looking for an alternative to SS cable for rudder control, I
: discovered a source for 2MM Spectra Speed Cord. It's an E-Bay seller from
: NZ
: This cord is made in NZ and is used on a lot of racing kayaks in NZ and
: Australia.
: This is a very stiff non stretching cord that is super light weight. I have
: always wanted to try it, but I didn't know how to get it from Sisson or
: other kayak builders that use it. I ordered it and received my order in a
: week (NZ to US).
: Disclaimer: I have no connection what so ever with the seller.I just want to
: pass along useful info to others seeking light weight, strong, non
: stretching alternative to steel cable for rudders, especially racing
: kayaks.

: Larry C.

I plan to use Spectra, Dynex, Dyneema or similar for rudder rather than stainless steel. The braided versions are very easy to splice. To make loops at rudder and pedal ends, feed 25mm or 1" straight through the cord 3 times so you have an s then open up the weave by squeezing the cord where you fed the end through and an inch or so further down as well,then bring your hands together. Feed the loose end all the way down the centre of the cord. When it is stretched out again it will grip the end and never slip.
Abrasion is the enemy of these super strong non stretch cords. One trick is to make a sacrificial loop at the ends instead of a direct link with rudder. 3mm cord in a sleeve made from 4mm ID polythene irrigation pipe, the stuff for sprinkler risers is one successful trick I have seen.

Mike Moss