Backstay adjuster for Hunter 25

[Cu Na Mara]

I'm looking at the Harken 12:1 non-split backstay tensioner to be attached at the backstay bracket and the ring where the mainsheet used to be sheeted (I installed a traveler across the cabin and moved the mainsheet there). Does anyone have any experience with this setup?

 

[Dennis Kitchen]

CN,
Although I'm not completely familiar with your rig it sounds like you have a 1970's model 25. (mine is an 83 with mid-boom sheeting and cockpit traveler) If so it is a mast head rig is it not? I am not a fan of backstay adjusters on mast head rigs as they put enormous loads on the rig if you're actually trying to bend the mast as compared to a fractional rig where the mast is also being "levered" into a bend.
That said, if your old sheeting location is a part of the back-stay chain-plate assembly and the dimensions and material are the same as the back-stay tang then you will probably be ok. But remember, you'll be inducing higher than normal loads on the rig.
My two cents, Dennis

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

My first question what year is the boat to make sure it is the early 25 model. I knew the first hunter sold was a 25 to a friend of mine, Skip.

 

[Cu Na Mara]

Thank you Denis. Yes it is an early Model 25, 1979 and is a masthead rig. The old mainsheet block was not attached to the chainplate, see the photo. Opposite the chainplate is a ring attached with two bolts through the fiberglass.

 

[Dennis Kitchen]

CN,
I believe that loop strap in your photo was maybe for a bimini top. To me it's doubtful for the main sheet, I would have to see under it to see how it was reinforced to be sure. Perhaps someone with a similar boat will chime in here. Definitely I would not hook a back-stay adjuster there! It would need the same strength as any of your stay/shroud attachment points.
Dennis

 

[Cu Na Mara]

hmmm... this is why I posted to this forum because I was not sure either, I'll take a look under the loop strap. That loop is where the mainsheet was attached when I got the boat and I don't see where else it could have been.

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

If you go to boat information, hunter and then click on the photo section, take a look at two photos noted Back of Boat/Jason Turner and Essayons at the Dock II. You will need to make a split back stay with turnbuckle body studs attached to two tangs at the far side of the transom. Split stay hardware kits are sold. As for the tangs, they need to be thru bolted with a backing plate inside on each side of the transom with lock washers and of course caulked. If you are still not sure, go look at other sailboats to see or get a better idea what they look like. If you still feel uneasy, hire a rigger to do this for you.