Backstay Adjuster

[Dave Mariano]

I am in the processs of purchasing a 1987 30' Catalina Tall Rig. While viewing the helm I noticed the vessel is equipped with a Backstay adjuster. It appears the normal setup for the rear stay is the lower part forms an "upside down V" and is attached to the stern on the port and starboard. The normal setup appears to allow plenty of room behind the wheel. The backstay adjuster consists of a series of pulleys and line that is located right in the area behind the wheel, in that "upside down V" area.If I purchase this boat, I would consider removing the backstay adjust. Is there a benefit to having the backstay adjuster? I do not plan to race, so the increase in performance that this option may provide may not be worth the inconveience.Thanks,Dave

 

[John Olson]

back stay is nice

I had the stanard back stay setup but it was in the way . I moved the rear rigeing (Y) up three feet and made the back stay go up one side of the rig to the adjuster andown the other to the pully and back to the line clamp Its nice to slacken the rig when not sailing. But I keep the rig fairly tight anty way John Olson

 

[Joe Barrett]

Backstay

It will improve performance of the boat, it sounds like the system I installed on my C320. Downwind slack the adjuster to improve speed, upwinds tighten to eliminate headstay sag and reduce weatherhelm and improved pointing ability.Where is the inconvienience? It takes little time and effort to adjust the backstay, if it only benifits you one time to reduce weatherhelm in a blow it will have been worth it.