Shroud tension settings

[Ed Guydan]

I just purcahsed a 1985 Hunter 34. The boat has been pulled out for the winter, and the mast has been taken down. For the yard to store the mast for the winter, the shrouds and spreaders must be removed.I would be looking for words of guidance recommendations for reinstalling the shrouds between the spreaders to obtain the proper pre-bend. Also what the typical shroud tension should be at the chainplates. I believe that the shrouds were overtightened, by the previous owner. The tension (load) were about double of that recommended on the Loos Gage. The 1/4" wire was set at a reading of 45, and the 9/32" wire was up at 50.My concern was prompted by a thin crack between the fiberglass and main support beam down in the cabin. Once I lower the shroud tension the crack closed up, so I do not think I have a problem of structural integrity of the beam. I just think it was deflecting due to too much downward force.Any guidance of setting up pre-bend, shroud tension, and backstay tension would be greatly appreciated.Regards,EdWildest DreamsH34

 

[Barry]

Check the Compression Post while the Rig's down!

I've had an h34 for 5 years and have not removed the mast yet. The first thing I would do would be remove the teak covering from the compression post and see what's left of the spruce 2x4's that hold up the mast. Replace with stainless if necessary. Lots of information and pictures in the archives about problems in this area.I have information about B&R rig tension/prebend. Not sure if it's home or on the boat under the schrink wrap. I'll look at home after the holiday.Barrys/v "PER DIEM too"

 

[Paul Hart (Effervescence)]

B & R Rig set-up

I happen to have a 4 page write up that covers the description and tuning of the B & R rig that came with my H34. This covers setting the bend and restepping the mast etc. The previous owner of my boat set a major mastrake that has increased the weatherhelm and I will be putting the mast back to the near vertical in the spring. I am counting on this write up to show me the way. I can e-mail it to you, my e-mail address is pandarus@gateway.net