Convert to All Rope Halyards *help*

[mrgnstrn]

Frankly, I'm not sure.  It is Samson XLS 3/8"

http://mauriprosailing.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=SAM456024

I'm going to try and get my way up the mast this weekend and figure it out.  It's starting to feel overwhelming at this point and I need to get back to basics and re-inventory my running rigging.  If you can't tell, I'm new to sailing.  And even though I did effectively sail her "home" from Annapolis, I'd like to ensure the safety of this vessel before I go nuts.  (I know how to sail, BTW - but still green).

Right now I'm focusing on an April launch with a safe & worthy boat.  I'm going to need to singlehand - I just can't generate much interest from friends and family - I'm OK with that.  I don't have much invested to this point and have a wonderful 26' sailboat with endless possibilities; and an endless list of improvements

Thanks for all the responses.  I'm going to replace the jib block and switch to an all rope jib halyard.  Then, I'm going to have to try and pull new 3/8" rope through the masthead from the deck; which you guys say is OK (using 3/8" rope through the masthead)?  If I can do those two things I gain a lot of safety and confidence; I can get rid of the old SS halyards and shackles; and I *think* I can run the halyards to the rear deck (for singlehanding)...  OK, I'm getting ahead of myself, but you get the idea.

I can't stop thinking about all this *grunt* - not to mention trying to figure out how to get myself up the mast!

As Bill said above, XLS is fine for your application.
As to getting up the mast...look into getting a set of those web stairs.  They have slugs you put in the mast, pull it to the top with one of the halyards, and work on the other. I have (and like) the "Mast Mate".