backstay adjustment

[Steve Seifert]

I have a 1993 H28 without an adjustable backstay (I'm actually looking to add one)and have 2 questions. First, what's the best way to determine whether I have appropriate tension/ mast bend? Also, I am concerned that the lower portion of the stay on one side has twisted. To adjust, can I simply remove the turnbuckle on the one side releasing the tension, and then reconnect? If so, is there anything I should be on the lookout for? Thanks! Steve

 

[David Foster]

Check manual

If you have a B&R rig, it is a special case of mast tuning, and a backstay is neither needed, or (as I understand discussions on the subject) desirable.There is a B&R rig tuning guide on the site, and a couple of good recent threads in the archives on this subject.DavidLady Lillie

 

[David]

backstay

Steve, you can remove one side of the split backstay while doing a repair if that is what you are asking. I have never heard of a backstay being undesireable on a B & R rig. All the B & R rigs built prior to the later model no-backstay rigs had a backstay!

 

[Terry]

HI STEVE, WE HAD AN 89 H28 FOR THREE...

years. Great boat, fast and comfy. I think David has it right. We never messed with our rigging, but you should be able to loosen the split back stay and make the adjustments you need to make. As far as mast bend goes, there is a limit. Charleston Spar (Isommat) at 704/597-1502 might be able to give you some technical advice. Our 89 had an Isomat stick, and if yours is the same, they make them so they should know. All you're trying to do with bend is flatten the sail allowing you to sail a little closer to the wind. You also might want to have a sail maker look at your main to see just how much bend you really need to accomplish your goal. Being frac rigged, it may not take much.Terry