How to use my running backstays on my 1980 37C

[Adjusterdehart]

Just got the boat. I understand what they are for, when the staysail is up to keep mast from bending/breaking. But, not sure where to place them. They are attached to the toe rail with a snatch block, up amidship, near the lower shrouds.

When I use them,. don't I have to lead them more aft to get a better angle on the mast?

Confused.

 

[Jim Legere]

Yes, you clip them back on the toe rail near the forward end of the cockpit (so you can easily get at then to release the leaward side when needed). You will probably find that you don't need to use then unless you are out in a "blow" - maybe 30 knots or more. If the mast "pumps" back and forwards above the spreaders, put them on.

 

[Ed Schenck]

I run with mine farther back and pretty much leave them alone. I have used them as Jim said, when the wind really pipes up.
Pic: somewhere in the Chesapeake.

 

[SailH37]

From a racer's perspective

I found that they work well when clipped onto the toe rail about 1/2 a meter infront of the companion way. That puts them at an angle that helps support the staysail's forestay. The mast doesn't bend enough to try to use the check stays to change the shape of the sails. But, of course, the further you move them back, the more they'll get in the way when you're running down wind. Gotta watch that gybe or you could take down hardware when that boom swings over and tries to take the check stay out.
Hope that helps,
Kb
s/v Renasci