Sagittarius

How often do you guys replace your cables or chains that come with your climbing stands ?
Doesn't most manufacturers recommend every two years ?
What is the average cost to replace them ?
How long does the plastic or rubber coating last before it begins to break down ?
Thanks!


Sag.



Edited by - Sagittarius on 09/06/2002 08:52:51

PABowhntr

Sag.,

I have also heard of the two year recommendation and plan to follow it whether it is true or not. This is one area where it definitely is better to be safe than sorry.

I just replaced the chains on my API Bowhunter after two years. Cost was $35.

The original chains came with the black rubber coating on them. It wore through in the center of the chain, where most tree contact occurs, before the end of the first season....though I didn't notice any increase in noise or damage to the tree.

The new chains came with a different form of semi-transparent brown coating which seems to be thicker and yet still as flexible. I have used it twice so far with the new chains/covering and have not noticed any wear whatsoever.

Hope this helps.

Sagittarius

Frank,

Thanks for your reply, my friend.
Actually, I knew you would be one of the few who would respond to my questions on replacing the chains and cables.
Why ?
Because, I feel, 99% of the guys who buy these type of stands will NEVER replace the chains or cables on them despite what the manufacturer recommends.
Most guys are too cheap, unconcerned, or don't want to bother with it.
Heck, I wouldn't want to mess with it either.
That's $175.00 extra over a ten year period if you replace them every other year. So there is expense involved.
I had been interested in getting either a Summit Goliath or Ol'Man Grand Vision.
But then, I thought, why buy something that needs the cables or chains replaced every two years ?
Why not get one of the new lighter Tree Lounges with V-Bars that you NEVER have to buy replacement cables or chains for.
Or maybe a Buck Shot with a V-Bar.

So actually, by not getting any replies, I feel, my hunch about everyone not wanting to replace their chains or cables for the reasons stated above was right on the money.
Anyone care to comment now ? LOL.
Anyone agree or disagree ?
Has anyone had a stand with cables or chains for several years and never replaced them yet ?
Do you plan on ever replacing them ?
Be honest!


Sag.

Matt / PA

You know Sag......I don't know if Summit puts a time frame on cable replacement?? I know that they say to look for broken strands.....These cables are pretty tough, and though I always check them I could never see ANYTHING that would indicate a safety problem. I would tend to think (no offense to the API guys Frank) that it would be much easier to damage or wear out a chain with individual links than a braided steel cable rated for 8,000lbs? No little pins or links to bind or break. To me a chain will take stress at different amounts and in different spots due to binding and the way it is made........a braided steel cable accepts a load the same no matter what angle you put on it, or if it rolls a bit.
This was one of the main reasons that I went with Summit over API the year that they came out with the cable style climbers.

I need to go look and see if I can find any factory recommendations.
Maybe Will "Summitman" from Summit will see this and fill us in.
I haven't needed to actually replace one myself yet as I'm on my 3rd different cable STAND in as many years. <img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>
Actually I do have 2 new replacement cables handy if I feel the need to change.....I know I'm putting a bit more stress on a stand than the average guy.

litework

I can say that cable is a lot more durable than chain. My company manufacturers electro-mechanical cables that are able to withstand the rigors of the ocean and we usually provide a ten year warranty. I know the cables are strong on the Summit but I do question the fixtures on the cable. I am certain they are not as strong as the cable but if one were to give I don't think the user would be in too much trouble (unless they were using the last fixture). I would visually inspect the cable for wear prior to use. If you notice any loose, frayed or displaced wires, its certainly time to replace the cable.

ilbback

Love my summit but I guess I am one of those cheap bast##ds that will only replace them when I have too. I look at mine every year and although there is some wear on the plastic/rubber cable of my summit viper,the cables are in perfect condition.

I also check the frame of mine every year. I bought the new viper and took it home and used it once and found a cracked seam on the platform which &quot;dicks&quot; replaced without question. So it does pay to look over your equipment every year including your bow limbs, cables and safety harness!!!! I have heard too many stories on this site of people falling out of trees and I dont want to be one of those few!!!!

round ball

The Summit that I have viper extreme xl only says when they are showing signs of damage.

Stealth_Force

Summit Viper XLS. Replace cables when you get broken strands. Rubber shrink tube is availible for repairs.
BOTH the chain AND cable are overkill for the stands (lawyers make SURE of that) I race motorcycles, and we use a LOT smaller chain, and it takes a HELL of a lot more abuse. The only problem with the chain a could possibly see, is the need to oil it if the plastics gets worn off (rust...squeaks). Other than that, I am 100% confident in my Summit, and my little brother's (6'6&quot; 280 lbs) API.

Edited by - Stealth_Force on 09/07/2002 11:52:55

10pointer

I inspect my api climbing stands frequently for any unusual wear. I'm going to call api and find out if they reccomend replacing the chains.

Smooch

Called API to get their opinion on replacing the whole chain, or just the shrink wrap on my 3 yr. old grand slam magnum, and the guy said just wait until next year, we are coming out with something much better than the chain system they currently use on their stands. Didn't think of it until after I hung up the phone, to ask if it will fit the stand I have now, or would I have to by a new stand to get the new technology?