Back stay pulleys

[SirMichael]

We just bought a Hunter 28.5 this spring. I'm curious about the pulleys on the backstay. The backstay line splits into a "Y" about 10' above the stern, and there is two pulley that would allow tightening up the rig (tie a rope to it and pull down).

Why is this there? Is it for racing to tune the mast?

Mike

 

[markwbird]

It's called a backstay adjuster. These are usually used on boats that race. On a fractional rig tightening it will put some bend in the mast and pull the middle of the mainsail taught to flatten it a bit. It also tightens the head stay, flattening the jib. These settings are used when sailing close hauled in a fresh breeze. Your boat is a mast head rig so you do not get much bend in the mast but it still tightens the forestay. After rounding the windward mark and heading downwind, loosen the backstay for a more curved, fuller headsail downwind. And for all you sail trim nitpickers, I know it's more complicated than that. This is just a quick example.

 

[SirMichael]

Figured that it was something like that. I used to do some racing on the Hobie Cat 16 that we had, so I understand what you are talking about.
Thanks!
Mike

 

[Cayennita]

Your boat has an B & R rig. Originally design in the 1970 's and used in the Ron Holland 1 ton racers. It did not have an adjustable back stay but it had a hydraulic adustable headstay. Hunter starting using that design in their Hunter 34. It does work to keep the mast from pumping in choppy seas. Use it too much and your lowers get slack because of the aft swept spreaders. This is not a bad thing since having the middle of the mast bend to leward will make for a better slot.