Tuning the rig on a Victoria 18

May 19, 2017
1
Catalina and Victoria 83 C25 standard rig/swing keel and 81 Victoria 18 Lake Marion, Manning, SC
I have a 1981 Victoria 18 which has a 7/8 fractional rig with sweep back upper and lower shrouds. The mast is deck stepped and there is no back stay. The mast has a prebend in it which is convex towards the stern instead of towards the bow. I have not been able to correct this issue. The boat sails with a lot of weather helm. I have tried tightening the upper shrouds to force the middle of the mast forward with the spreaders but have not been successful. I can straighten it up but as soon as I put any tension on the lowers the bend shows up. I welcome any suggestions. I also have a Catalina 25 with a masthead rig and have had no issues tuning it. Thanks.
 

RussC

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Sep 11, 2015
1,732
Merit 22- Oregon lakes
All Vic 18s have a lot of weather helm. you won't be able to just "tune it out". wonderful little boat, but that's just the way they are.