26.5 Backstay rigging

[jerseywaters]

The backstay on our 26.5 is not rigged correctly. We would appreciate advice/photos of how the backstay should be rigged. There is an upper triangle fitting that splits the backstay into two lower wires that go to the 'lower' fitting. The lower fitting then splits the two stays for port and starboard attachment to the stern of the boat. This question is - what is the correct way to rig the tension on the 'lower fitting' - how are you doing it? The lower fitting is supposed to be pulled down to create tension. Our is not rigged correctly. We have pulley below the lower fitting with a line going in parallel to the stay port and starboard. This method of creating tension causes the backstay to twist. Photo to see - http://forums.hunter.sailboatowners.com/album.php?albumid=724

 

[Brian M H23]

You need to get the twist balanced. Upin the legs and twist the backstay a few turns until it doesn't twist under load.

 

[Alan]

This can be un-twisted by simply removing one leg of the split stays and unwrapping the twist. It is the upper leg of the backstay that is creating the twist. Leave the backstay adjuster off till the twist is gone then re-attach it at the bottom. The adjuster is no factor in the twist. When the adjuster is fully eased there should plenty of slack in the headstay.