Shroud Tension

[Stuart Casteel]

Hi, I was wondering about how to go about retensioning my rig while I am afloat. While I was prepareing my D on the trailer, all looked well. Now that she is out in the bay and has been sailed a few times. I am noticeing quite a bit of slop in the leeward shrouds. Can I just tighten the forstay turnbuckle untill she is tuned or do I need to do something else. I am permently moored for the summer and dont want to do a haul out if I dont have to.Thanks,Stu

 

[Michael]

Stu, It's not so hard to adjust the shrouds on the water, or even underway for that matter, (you need plenty of water and good crew if you intend on the former) The tension of the leeward shrouds will vary depending on the blow you're sailing in and how much rag is presented.If they (leeward) are hanging like drapes in a 10kt breeze they need to be tighter, they should be firm but not tight, In a stiff blow they should be loose. At 10Kt the head stay should be tight so there is no noticeable bow when pointing.Hope that helps.