thread used on hypalon

[603doug]

I have searched the forum and did not find an answer. Have a HBI with detachable tubes. There is a flap that is in a channel along the hull that attaches the tubes and it is stitched along the edge to hold a thin rope that locks it in the channel. About 3 feet in on the tube the thread is broken and has unraveled about a foot. A good thread recommended and can something like this be hand sewn or should I take the tube off and have it sewn. Worried if I take it off might open a new can of worms thanks

[jwalker]

I guess a good polyester thread would be ok although, a waxed thread, like the type used to stitch leather soles to shoes, might help prevent the thread rotting. I'd have a go at stitching it by hand, trying to match the holes already in the fabric. Stitch a simple up one hole down the next but turn around at the end and go back on the opposite side so you end up with a kinda figure of 8 stitch. Overlap a section of good stitching to start and finish.

[Biggles]

Doug,

If your going to do it by hand the best thread I have come across to do hard wearing tasks is the thread used in parachutes for the cords that go from the parachuter to the parachute.

Its called paracord in the UK but I'm sure you can get an equivalent in the US.

It might seem that the cord is too thick to sow with, in its initial state but it can be easily be broken down in to strands to suit what ever you require.

This stuff can withstand mortar bombs so its strong. I've used it for various things because I can get it cheap and it does the job.

[jwalker]

Originally Posted by Biggles

If your going to do it by hand the best thread I have come across to do hard wearing tasks is the thread used in parachutes for the cords that go from the parachuter to the parachute.

Cool.

[Charles]

You can find everyhting you require here: http://www.paragear.com/templates/pa...l=2&parent=193

[The Garfish]

Originally Posted by Biggles

I've used it for various things because I can get it cheap

wot yew meen iz yew nikk itt owt ov de staws

dis iz wy de nobburs fromm de parashoot rejimunt arr thuddin innto de grownd orl ova de fkin plaice

gaRf

[alystra]

Originally Posted by jwalker

I guess a good polyester thread would be ok although, a waxed thread, like the type used to stitch leather soles to shoes, might help prevent the thread rotting. I'd have a go at stitching it by hand, trying to match the holes already in the fabric. Stitch a simple up one hole down the next but turn around at the end and go back on the opposite side so you end up with a kinda figure of 8 stitch. Overlap a section of good stitching to start and finish.

Agreed. (with jwalker re stitching and thread)

You can buy waxed polyester thread from most chandlers, and the triangular section needles. Just bought a kit of needles and thread in a pack. Holt Marine Pre Pack. Assorted threads and needles, perhaps enough for you. Buy a sailmakers palm too, to push the needle through.

[Biggles]

Originally Posted by The Garfish

wot yew meen iz yew nikk itt owt ov de staws

dis iz wy de nobburs fromm de parashoot rejimunt arr thuddin innto de grownd orl ova de fkin plaice

gaRf

Garf,

Maybe I'm why the Parachute Regiment doesn't do any parachuting anymore.

[603doug]

thank you all for your help. Check out paracord, it seems to be 1/16 in thick and single braid and it would seem difficult to split. Did I look at the wrong cord? The thread on it now looks like the poly thread used on footwear as has been suggested.
I really not sure why rib are not popular here, I now am aware of 3 builders of ribs in New England and everytime I go out I will have people remark on how much fun and safe they are. Go figure

[jyasaki]

I think the paracord he was talking about was the cored stuff: a sleeve of braided material over discrete (i.e. parallel) twisted inner strands.

Personally, I think that would be overkill. All you're trying to do is hold the cord in place. Waxed polyester (of a heavy enough gauge) should be fine.

For stitching heavy material, I prefer this thing:

http://www.speedystitcher.com/

jky