Replacing main Halyard

[PromptCritical]

I just picked up some line from West Marine and would like some tips on replacing a main halyard. I have a DS II. Basically, I figure the easiest way would be to attach the new halyard to the old one and pull it through. What is the best way to attach them together so the joint will move smoothly through the mast without coming apart. My only idea right now is old fashioned duct tape.

Oh, and if anyone has a spare rudder lying around, I could use one of those too.

[PDuckX]

I recently had to do something similar. I lashed the two lines together end to end with some thin nylon string and then covered it with Duct tape for good measure. I then worked the joint to make it flexible and it worked like a charm.
I noticed you hail from the Beaver State. Where do you typically sail? I assume you are near Portland if you where at West Marine.

[PromptCritical]

Yep, Portland. Peter filled me in on your little fleet. I still have some work to do on the boat, and the trailer so I can get the boat back to Portland, but I am definitely interested sailing with you guys. I am also in need of a rudder/tiller, if you know where I can get one, any leads would be greatly appreciated. I usually sail at Pine Hollow reservoir:

[Peter McMinn]

I have all internal lines and have recently replaced them all, which is not fun, especially when you know you should be out on the water.

Anyway, a knot free halyard installation is to use straightened bailing wire coil-wrapped over about three inches of the halyard line. Duct tape over this and you have a failsafe installation.