I've switched two boats from wire to rope and sailed many thousands of miles without a problem. Sheaves were the combination rope/wire variety with a center groove for wire. Question this one though. Looks like the wire has worn the sheave and the outer edges where rope would ride look pretty rough. Garhauer sells mast sheaves pretty reasonably. Think I'd switch this one out. If there is no hurry, could try it out carefully monitoring the halyard for wear. 48 hours under sail should give some indication if the sheaves are going to be an issue.