[TenTec] 238 elastic cord replacement?

[ARDUJENSKI at aol.com]

I have reviewed the comments in the archives regarding  restringing the 238 
dial. There have been suggestions but no real feedback  especially regarding 
the elastic band:
 
Suggestion 1:  ...the "bungee cord" is beading cord  elastic. Wal-Mart's 
StretchRite brand #3961 is cheap and probably available  locally in their fabric 
department.  It lasts around 7 years for me before  I need to restring the four 
238's here - and there's no use saving it for later  (AC5E)     
 
Suggestion 2: I replaced the elastic band on both of my 238s with miniature 
stainless

steel springs. Gardner Spring, Inc. part # V17C. They are .130" OD x .0162"

WD x 4.0" OAL.(K4ZRJ)
Suggestion 3: Go with Ten Tec original
Any comments regarding the elastic cord replacement. Which has worked best 
for you?
 
Alan  KB7MBI
Woodinville, WA