Hunter 18.5 - Is adding a back stay a good idea?

[Todd]

What do people think of the idea of adding a back stay to an 18.5? Is it a good idea to make the mast more stable in rougher conditions, or is it not necessary?If you were going to do it, would you go with a split stay or simply an off-center stay?Thanks in advance.Todd

 

[Dave Condon]

Backstay?

I sold alot of these rascals and sailed under various wind conditions that even some would make your hair stand on end.Based on experience, I do not recommend it as the rig has already proven itself.Also, it would interefere with the main as it has a large roach for power plus the nuicance getting around the cockpit. Bad idea to put a backstay in.crazy dave