37C RIGGING

[Rick]

Having little experience with a Cutter I asked how I should install my running rigging lines from the mast. I was told that they don't have to be installed and can be a real pain to tack if used. I need some real solid advise from a Cutter owner.Rick.

 

[Carl]

Running Backstays

In all but the heavyest weather I attach them to the toe rail near the stays. I've used them once in 40 knt winds and 12 ft waves with the sta-sail and reefed main though I'm not sure I needed them. Running down wind I use them as preventers.

 

[Ed Schenck]

For Carl:

Carl,What is the designed purpose for the running backstays? There are already nine stays supporting the mast. And how, specifically, do you use them as preventers? And, finally, how would they interfere with tacking? Mine are attached to the toe-rail about 18 inches back from the aft-most shroud. They don't seem to be in the way.

 

[Chuck Harding]

running with a B&R rig

Carl, does your cutter have the b&r rig? My 430 doesn't do well downwind with those swept back stays, especially surfing in big seas. Definitely need a preventer to avoid jibbing. I've tried tacking down wind but as is obvious it is a slow way to go. Wonder if anyone has suggestions for improved downwind performance. With your cutter, can you pole out the jib and stasail wing and wing and douse the main. How does it perform? Thanks, Chuck

 

[Carl]

Running backs

Hi Ed,I only use them when sailing in very heavy weather (40 knots or so) using the sta-sail alone or with reefed main to keep stress off that area of the mast. You are attaching yours in about the same place I keep mine most of the time. Mine have a snap shackel so that I can use the tackel(looks like a vang and has snap shackels at both ends) as a preventer when running down wind. I just hook the upper snap shackel to the boom from the toe rail. The running backs don't interfere with tacking at all. I'm not sure if this is the correct way to use them but its works for me and its the way I've allways done it.

 

[Rick]

But how are the stays rigged?

The stays are approximately 3 ft short of the Toe rail, how should they be fastened?Rick.

 

[Justin Wolfe]

With a block & tackle

Similar to most boom vangs. You need two blocks. Some low stretch line like Sta-Set X, a snap shackle to attach the lower block to your toerail (or padeye), some type of shackle to attach the upper block to the running back wire, and a cleat attached to the lower block. That's it. Not sure how much purchase you'll need. I'm guessing 5:1, but maybe a 37 owner can specify.

 

[Jim Flowers]

Running Backstays

The running backstays are usually maintained forward as far as practical until they are needed. Then the leeward stay can be moved aft to counter the wind loads allowing more sail to be carried in a blow. Easily done and a touch more safety margin for an already sturdy plan. Make sure there is enough line to allow setting well aft. They are very useful in eliminating mast pumping under particular conditions. Many people don't bother with them but it's nice knowing they're there when the wind starts to rise.

 

[Ed Schenck]

No blocks?

I'm curious how Rick found an H37C without the tackle for the running stays? No wonder he couldn't see how to rig them. This was a great post for those of us new to the 37-Cutter. Use as preventers? Who'd a thunk it.

 

[Rick]

Responce to "No Blocks"

Ed,The mast was down when I purchased the boat. So the lines only become visable when all of the lines were laid out before the mast was raised.