gnob

definitely good to resplice the ends but 4' is a bit much. iirc sufficient splice on 3/8 is 24-28"

Thanks, I’m aware about the link you posted. Main thing that bugs me is that those ropes have loops with very little rope buried on the return. The ones I’ve done have 3 ft buried plus a 12” taper.

some good tips on making and using extensions together from yankum ropes if you aren't familiar

So. 3/8" rope from Amazon came in, 80ft in orange, and 100ft in gray, the latter for making extensions. Both advertised at 26,500lbs breaking strength. Both came with hooks (that I don't need...). The larger one came with the gray rope...

The smog guy might not be right. A leak down test is a good place to start. No point spending time and money on nonexistent problems.