I am using a launching pole system and the rope for launching the pole is burning through the mast on its way to the spyro fitting. I am about to out some gelcoat on (it is a white Superspar mast so at the moment is only taking off the coating) and can make some kind of protector plate to go over it. However I wondered if anyone had experienced similar trouble and how they have solved the problem?

Cheers

Cyclists call it helicopter tape, you can get it off ebay under that name.

it's a clear ptfe tape and is pretty bombproof

Just looking at this as it happens and have found different sources and thicknesses, some on ebay in smaller sizes /quantities. Handy if your helicopter blades need protection as well. Cars seem to use similar stuff on high wear areas around doors/tread plates etc.

Cheers for the advice. Come to think of it I did have some of this on my bike. Since I sold it all inspiration to that end has gone!

I use a bit of chafe tape from Allspars around the mast under the pole eye.

I use a piece of 50mm drainpipe from b&q.
The enlarged section where the next bit of down pipe is supposed to plug in has a slot cut in it to go over the pole eye.
It's slit up the back to go around the sail track.

I actually bought the bit of pipe to use as a mould when I was planning to make a proper launcher fitting, that is on the back burner due to work and other things right now.

I use a small piece of mylar - the same stuff that the slot gaskets are made of. Black mast, white-ish mylar, held in place with black tape. When the tape wears through and I can see the white - replace the tape! The mast never gets eaten at all.

I use a sliced 2" drain pipe with a beer tin wrapped round it.