Back stays

[IKE ENRIQUEZ]

I just bought a 1975 ODay 22. I order a Backstay from the internet. When I step up the mast some how the Backstay does not go as tight as the Forestay. Is this wright? Does the Backstay real does not get as tight as the Forestay. Note that I both tighten this by hand.I tighthen the Forestay as I much as I can by hand, the Backstay got tight but not as tight as the Forestay because the turnbuckle is maximum already. I did sail the boat with this tension and it did not give me any problems. How do I know if the Backstay is tight enough. My concern is the Mast might slip out of the Taburnacle if the Forestay is tighter than the Backstay.

 

[Ted]

You might need a shim . . .

The forestay will be somewhat tighter than the backstay because the angle is greater. However, the tension should be adequate to avoid any movement of the rig.I would check the mast to see if it is "in column" (i.e. straight). If it looks like you need more adjustment on the backstay, you could try adding a shim underneath the tabernackle. (1/2" maybe) This will raise the mast by a small amount and give you more ability to adjust all the way around. Of course you will have to re-adjust all the stays/shrouds once you add a shim.Regards,Ted

 

[Mike]

Maybe replace the turnbuckle

You said that there's no more adjustment left in the backstay turnbuckle. Perhaps you can purchase a shorter turnbuckle that is the same size, ie. 1/4" or 5/16" pins. It doesn't make sense that the backstay would be loose while the forestay is tight, unless your forward shrouds are too tight. You should also check to see if you have any rake to the mast ( slight tilt towards the rear ).