Proper Tension for Shrouds

[Nick Batounis]

Need a little advice. I have a Hunter 33 which I have attempted to race. One of my primary problems has been pointing. I am in the process of installing a backstay adjuster but I am unsure as to the proper tension I should set my shrouds at. Using a Loos Gauge I have set my front lower shrouds at 37, the rear lower are at 33 to 35 and the upper is 35. I have a slight bend in the mast at these settings. I wonder if perhaps the front lowers are a shade to tight? If anyone can lend assistance with this i would appreciate it. Thanks  Nick

 

[D J]

Check as a % of breakage

Loos has a manual folder that has a table that will give you what % of breakage your tension is for a given wire size and for a given reading. It suggests 15% of breaking for the forestay and 10-12 for the shrouds. However, do read it as it points out that on some fractional rigs, up to 20% may be required for the forestay.It does say never to exceed 25%See web site - related linkElsewhere in the book, "It should be noted that on America's Cup contenders, where good tension instrumentation is available, the standing rigging is set as tight as is structurally feasible." Or as now shown, perhaps even greater than feasibile . . .