There is quite a bit of information on proper mast bend, but I am more interested in determining proper mast rake i.e., whether my forestay is too short. When I look at my mast compared to others at the harbor, it appears to be bowed slightly forward due to pre-bend. What is the proper mast rake when measured at boom level by the distance from the aft part of the mast to a weighted halyard. Mine is about 7 inches. BTW, I race so I want to go as fast as possible without making a major investment in new shrouds.
Mast Rake - Right Forestay Length
- Thread starter slazerow
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The correct amount of pre-bend is whatever the mainsail needs to set properly.
Mine is about 6".
The correct amount of mast rake is whatever it takes to have the boat handling nicely without excessive weather helm.
Mine is about 6" - 7".
BOTH WILL VARY WITH WIND STRENGTH AND CUT OF MAINSAIL.
As it is unlikely that the owner will want to alter his standing rigging every time the wind-strength changes I set my pre-bend up in light(ish) winds and my rake in strong(ish) winds.
You can't win so don't worry about it!
Mine is about 6".
The correct amount of mast rake is whatever it takes to have the boat handling nicely without excessive weather helm.
Mine is about 6" - 7".
BOTH WILL VARY WITH WIND STRENGTH AND CUT OF MAINSAIL.
As it is unlikely that the owner will want to alter his standing rigging every time the wind-strength changes I set my pre-bend up in light(ish) winds and my rake in strong(ish) winds.
You can't win so don't worry about it!
Mast rake, as a general rule, (note: general) is from 1% to 3% of mast height. I race and use a rake of 2.75%. As Donalex suggests this varies with sailing conditions and sail shape. Ollder baggy sails will not be able to handle a higher rake without inducing a lot of weather helm. Also a well tuned rig will make a hellava difference.
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