Sandpiper 565 backstay?

[David Stanley Smith]

I have been upgrading my Sandpiper. I have added stanchions, double lifelines, metal backing plates for all deck fittings, stainless fittings to replace any chrome-plated zinc, hinges on the anchor locker cover, interior shelves, a level lazarette platform, a sliding OB bracket, corner plates and a bow plate to add a finishing touch to the teak rub-rails, stronger spreaders, and more. Lately, I have been wondering about a backstay. I live in an area where we often end up sailing home with a strong following wind. the boom may be a problem, however. I am wondering if any other Sandpiper owners have added a backstay and whether or not they consider it a worthwhile addition.

 

[Elmet]

But not harmful!!!

Well, Don, we didn't all agree!! I seem to be the hold out that feels a back stay would be an improvement. The others convinced me that it isn't necessary, but I think it could be an improvement in strong following winds. We had quite a discussion about the stresses in the side stays and the deflection of the boat due to a the small angle of the stays. I would be very interested in any experience that indicated the back stay improved things.