Tarp ridgeline question...

[jcreamer]

I am using 1.75mm zing it for my tarp ridgeline (continuous) with a dutch hook afixed to one end of a fixed eye loop with locked brummel and on the other end a tarp fly from dutch. I want to attach the tarp using a prussik or klemheist so that I can move the tarp on the ridgeline.
My problem is that I cannot get the prussik/klemheist to bite or hold it's position on the 1.75mm zing it. I should mention that I am using the same cord for the prussik. I have also used various numbers of loops through the prussik/klemheist and it still will not pitch tight.
In the past I have just used two seperate lines from each end of my tarp and this has worked. But, I would like to use the above system since I have heard so many of you talk about it.
Any help would be appreciated.
Jeff.

[Cole]

How many loops did you put in your prusik? I had to put eight in mine before it would hold well.

[bradclarkston]

I'm using French Prusick's (autoblock) as there easier, can be moved under load and they seem to bight better for me.

I've also switch to using #18 bank line for my ridge line. It's cheaper, has no problem bighting down and works with my Dutch hook.

[old4hats]

Maybe using braided mason's line would hold better, as it is smaller and a different material.

[mrcheviot]

It helps beyond words to spend the extra effort to finish the prusik before applying loads to it. If you pinch or fold the ends of the knot together, the portion that runs along the knot will loosen; to finish the knot, try to then work this slack through the wraps and out to the loop you're attaching to. When finished, the knot should not be able to straighten along the ridgeline. You'll be able to slide it though, and then put it under load to set it.

I'm able to get 1.75mm prusiks to stay firmly in place on the same 1.75mm line with only 3 wraps, but only after doing the above. YMMV, but it should help.

[SmokeBait]

Jcreamer, are you hanging the tarp under the ridge line or on top of it. The prusiks don't have to hold nearly as much with the tarp on top. If it is already on top, add more turns to the prusik. They tend to grip better as they get used and broken in.