Thanks for the reply, I have replaced what I would call for the lack of better words, a rawhide inskirt style rigging, ( no metal) I have gone ahead and completed the job, I did treat my selection of placement on the hide as I would if it was skirt leather, ( along the spine) to play it safe, I have never done this particular repair before and this was the first place I looked for guidance , this site is my life line, I truly don't think there is a better source or a more generous group of people,sorry but I'm not sure how to post pictures on this site, but to clarify,this is a design that is similar to the late saddle maker dave jones from Monticello Florida mentioned in Al stohllmans saddle making book but without any metal reinforcement if I can figure out how to post some pictures I will, again thanks for the interest,I truly feel like this a long distance family, that I am totally consumed with