Comp 30 rigging

[Drew]

I have a 1973 Irwin Comp. 30. At some point the previous owner (now deceased) dismasted her. He bought a new mast, and sailed her for a few years before he died. The rigging that came with the boat includes a removable forward jack stay. I am not able to get enough tension between the back stay and this forward jack stay to rake the mast back. In fact, the mast rakes forward, rather than aft. There are two sets of chainplates, one set abeam of the mast, and a second set about 2 feet behind the first set. I am wondering if the mast broke because there are no lower shrouds forward of the mast. Does anyone have experience adding additional chainplates to an Irwin? I am thinking I might be able to add another set of lower shrouds, and get rid of the jack stay. (it gets in the way when tacking) There are all ready an extra set of tangs on the mast at the level where the lower shrouds connect. I was thinking that I might be able to build up the cabin wall (that is where the other chainplates are attached) with fiberglass and epoxy, and then drill holes for new chainplates. Any information would be appreciated. Thanks - Drew.

 

[Nick Heath]

Comp 30 Rig

Interesting, Drew! Ganymede's previous owner had set up the mast with considerable aft rake. The baby stay (or jack stay if you like) is provided because there are no angulated stays at mid-height - therefore in some sea states one can get 'pumping' or rhythmic fore/aft bending in the mid-mast area. The baby stay can be tethered elsewhere (off the foredeck) when it is not needed, but it is awkward in or not in use (I removed mine for awhile). Also to save chafe mine has pvc pipe over it, so does not stow invisibly.The mast on Ganymede appears to be an original 1977 - tapered - and my rigger tells me, manufactured by Irwin by epoxy-gluing together two half sections.Ganymede has only one chainplate each side, holding the upper and lower shrouds. A previous owner had one chainplate pull through due to leakage/rot in the bulkhead.The repair uses sheets of heavy stainless steel.I think if done carefully, it should not be too hard to add an additional set of chainplates but I would consult a rigger to see what the mast needs for adequate support. I don't know enough about this topic.However, to solve the immediate problem I would lengthen the baby stay (or add a link or two of chain on the lower end) and use the baby stay only when you need to (maybe not very often if you are not racing on a beat in heavy chop).Well that's my 2 cents!