Has anyone else considering modifying the Hunter25.5's transom to allow for a split backstay as opposed to an offset single backstay? I am considering a split backstay for a few reasons. I am going to install a backstay tensioning system. I have looked at several options like the wichard inline tensioned and have concluded that the best and least expensive way is to use a block and tackle system. So my options with a block and tackle system are to use the single offset backstay as it exists now and put a block and tackle system inline with the single backstay. Or I could modify the boat and have a split backstay and employ a system that uses the block and tackle to pull the two split stays together which results in tensioning the stay. The advantage in my mind of having a split system is that your mast is not being held up solely by the Dacron line in the block and tackle as it would be with the inline block and tackle system. Where with the split system you still have wire rope holding up the mast in the event the Dacron line breaks. So has any one else considered converting their single backstay to a split system?
- Status
Pincer Setup
We have a pincer backstay adjuster on our H L-35 which uses a five-shieve block to pull the split backstay together. There is a line that goes from the port stay attach to the pincer and then to the starboard stay attach where I have a block and tackle setup. This setup works great when cranking up on the backstay but not so well when releasing the tension. The problem I have with the way it's setup is when releasing the backstay tension is the pincer doesn't like to "go up" by it's self very well and I usually have to help it by pushing the split backstay apart by hand. The fix would be to put a small block where the split stays meet the back stay and have a small line going from the pincer to the block and down to the deck. Well, with all the other things to do I just haven't got around to it. My feeling is the pincer setup is not going to be as smooth acting as the other setups but, like you pointed out, if it failed it wouldn't affect the rig where as the other setups would. Otherwise, the pincer system is about as inexpensive and simple of a setup as there is and really helps with sail trim. I'd say it's the first thing a person should add to their boat, bang for the buck, to make it perform better.
We have a pincer backstay adjuster on our H L-35 which uses a five-shieve block to pull the split backstay together. There is a line that goes from the port stay attach to the pincer and then to the starboard stay attach where I have a block and tackle setup. This setup works great when cranking up on the backstay but not so well when releasing the tension. The problem I have with the way it's setup is when releasing the backstay tension is the pincer doesn't like to "go up" by it's self very well and I usually have to help it by pushing the split backstay apart by hand. The fix would be to put a small block where the split stays meet the back stay and have a small line going from the pincer to the block and down to the deck. Well, with all the other things to do I just haven't got around to it. My feeling is the pincer setup is not going to be as smooth acting as the other setups but, like you pointed out, if it failed it wouldn't affect the rig where as the other setups would. Otherwise, the pincer system is about as inexpensive and simple of a setup as there is and really helps with sail trim. I'd say it's the first thing a person should add to their boat, bang for the buck, to make it perform better.
Backstay
I had thought about tht before but probably won't attempt it unless I decide to go racing. The one thing I would worry about is what to use for backing plates for the new backstay mounts on the transom. I m also not sure if this would lead to any kind of stress cracking around the transom from the relocation of the backstay. It would be nice to have control of the backstay tension though.
I had thought about tht before but probably won't attempt it unless I decide to go racing. The one thing I would worry about is what to use for backing plates for the new backstay mounts on the transom. I m also not sure if this would lead to any kind of stress cracking around the transom from the relocation of the backstay. It would be nice to have control of the backstay tension though.
- Status