Restraining Rope

[KentRock]

Hi - I've got an Intex 15' x 48" Metal Frame Pool. The restraining rope is in bad shape and needs to be replaced. Any advice as to what type of rope I should use? Also, are there any instructions available as to how you're supposed to knot the rope? Thanks!

[AnnaK]

Is this the rope that goes around the circumference of the pool? I saw a picture somewhere, can't remember the source, where they used a tie down strap with a ratcheting end.

[PoolDoc]

Any advice as to what type of rope I should use? Also, are there any instructions available as to how you're supposed to knot the rope?

Hey, fun -- I usually don't get to put on my Scoutmaster hat here, but I can for this one!

OK. The rope they use is a soft white polypropylene, which is NOT UV stable. You've got 3 choices: you can try to replace it with the original rope (by calling Intex -- contact info sticky-d in this forum section), you can replace it with nylon, which is intrinsically UV resistant, or you can replace it with BLACK soft polypropylene. Nylon will be the most durable, and will hold the adjustable knot best, but it will become stiff over time, and will be hard to loosen. Black polypro won't hold the knot quite as well, so you may have to tighten it occasionally, but it won't be as 'stretchy' as nylon, so it will be easier to set, and will behave most like the OEM rope. That would probably be the best choice. You'll want 1/2" to 5/8" diameter. Don't go too small, especially with nylon, or it will 'chafe' your pool.

==> Do NOT remove the existing rope until the new rope is FULLY in place and FULLY tightened. <===

You'll need 6' plus the circumference, or 48' + 6' = 54 feet.

Tie the rope ends with a taut-line hitch, BUT add an extra wrap on each side, so that it's 3 turns + 2 turns, instead of 2 + 1. Here's video of how to tie it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jkN3K5G8eE

I was going to send you to Lowes, but they've apparently discontinued the black 5/8 derby rope they used to sell.
Here's rope that will work, and for an EXCELLENT price (Lowes sold it for 0.75/ft). A solid color will last longest, but it looks like the solids may not ship quickly. With 140', you'll have enough to do it 2x, so that will probably outlast your pool.

Rope King SBP-58140BW Solid Braided Poly Rope - Black /White - 5/8 inch x 140 feet
Rope King SBP-58140R Solid Braided Poly Rope - Red - 5/8 inch x 140 feet
Rope King SBP-58140B Solid Braided Poly Rope - Blue - 5/8 inch x 140 feet
Rope King SBP-58140GW Solid Braided Poly Rope - Green / White - 5/8 inch x 140 feet