What Material is best?

[Welcome to the GWTW Forum]

Welcome to the GWTW Forum.
Guests (non-registered users) can view the forum but are unable to post.  If you don't have anything to say then why would you bother to register?
One of the most popular sections of the GWTW Forum has long been the Swap Meet.  A great place to sell old, seldom flown kites or to get great deals on used (gently flown) kites.  Only registered users can see the Swap Meet section, let alone wheel and deal.  1000's (literally) of kites have changed hands thanks to the Swap Meet.
There are several more benefits to being a registered user, but you'll have to join our little community to find out all the "secrets".
Questions or concerns?  forum.gwtwkites@gmail.com

[np]

 

[fidelio]

1 or 2 inch slit nylon. 1 inch if you just want to fold it in half along the trailing edge, or 2 inch if you want to double fold it.

just be careful when you sew it not to sew through the leech line.

[Spz0]

Are you planning on removing the old trailing edge and installing a new one?  or Patching?

Heres a site I found really helpful for material replacement, and tools needed.

http://www.tweelijners.com/tom/tomskitesite-en/Home.html

[kmac]

...The leech line is exposed in several places. What would be the best material to replace it with?

Can you post pictures of the damage?  It would be easier to make a recommendation.

[Spz0]

I don't think ur leech line being too tight would do that (but to be sure, check for sail distortion along the wingtip/trailing edge).
It could also be from too many repeatitive yoyo wraps.
Once you get those patched, try re-enforcing the trailing edge with black duct tape.  Take a roll, and cut it down the center (essentially cutting the width in half), and wrap some along your trailing edge, extending 6 inches to either side of your standoffs.  Also put some tape just above your yoyo stoppers.  When the tape wears out, just peel it off, then replace it.  Beats replacing a T.E. or L.E.

Hope that helps m8. 

~Jon

[kmac]

My guess is that the problem is abrasion caused either by the bridle or leader lines.  I would probably try 1" 3.9 oz Dacron tape, folded in half as a sleeve/patch.  You'll need to remove and replace the standoff reinforcements, or at least cut them loose at the bottom to sew the new T/E sleeve in.

I agree with using the black duct/gaffer's tape as a sacrificial layer.  You might also try some of the Moonie tape (which Steve carries), it's intended for this type of friction.

It's not a difficult repair.

[kitelover]

Norm, I just had to repair the same thing on mine, although the damage didn't go beyond the two standoffs. I used adhesive backed     Dacron repair tape (insignia cloth). About 2" wide and 6" long (the width of the standoff reinforcement). Used a hole punch to make two holes for the standoffs, slid it over the standoffs and folded it over. A corner or two stick out more than I'd like, an extra pair of hands would help during the folding. I haven't flown it since, so can't say how it holds up.
I rarely do rollups, so suspect the wear is from lazy susans. I think I'll give up the fast/aggressive ones and if it happens again maybe the axle based tricks are enough.

Our forum is made possible by the good folks whose ads appear in the right margin of the forum and by the members of our community (PayPal donation button at bottom of the page)
In case you missed it each ad is linked to the sponsors web site.  So please, take a moment and visit our sponsors sites as this forum wouldn't be possible with out them. >>>
Interested in running an ad for your business or kiting event?  Contact Steve at advertise.gwtwkites@gmail.com for a quote.