Blake's slipping.

[9th year rookie]

I just retired my 1/2" 16-strand ArborMaster and orderd a new climbing line.
It was getting old and beat-up anyway, but lately/last few climbs, my friction hitch (I use Blakes) was starting to slip on me.
I haven't changed anything in my system since this started.
I'd be sitting there suspended in the tree and just start to slide a few inches before I'd grab the tail (where you put the stopper knot) and tighten up. Scared the *** out of me. Noticed it all day not tightening up the way it usually would.
Also, it seemed to make a "chalky" sound, like it was dried out or something. not sure how else to descripe it.

Any input/comments would be appreciated.

 

[moray]

The first time that happened to me it scared me plenty. Instead of grabbing the tail of the knot, I grabbed the rope just under the knot and gave it a hard right-angle kink, and then bounced a bit to further load the knot. It worked. I don't use the Blakes anymore, but other knots will also slip from time to time. The same maneuver seems to work in every case...

 

[lync]

Might need to cut off tail or get a new split tail. When the tail gets glazed I'vr seen it slip. If the rope is good don't throw it out, try washing it soap and water and good rinse/air dry. Ive seen guys who climb on a tautline who tie a marlin spike under th e friction hitch and let it come up against the bottom of the knot as not to slip.
corey