Backstay adjustment on course.

[messias]

Hi there,

I have another "newbee" question for you: Do you guys use backstay adjustment in order to provide more/less lift on the main while on course, or is it something you just mess with at port? I´ve heard that one can even use that fine adjustment instead of going straight to reefing the main.



Ahoj,
Messias.

[carstenb]

The backstay is used to bend/unbend the mast. a short version, when sailing with the wind from aft - the backstay should be loosened to allow the sails to become fuller.

Beating up against the wind or on a beam reach the backstay is tightened to make the sails flatter and provide more tension on the front part of the sail.

Yes we do make these adjustments while sailing, not just in port.

There are no stupid questions - just a desire to learn

[messias]

Thanks Carstenb. I apreciate the explanation.
So far I have only sailed small daysailers for "extended time", and bigger boats only for a couple of hours near the beach after leaving the marina, so actually I have almost ZERO cruising experience, so that´s why I never used it/knew about it (or maybe it just wasn´t the time to know about it until now ).

Thanks again,
Messias

[perchance]

Mast head rig or fractional rig?

[messias]

Hi perchance,

I was talking about a fractional rig.
Also been snooping around here in the forum and I found that you guys have already wrote quite a few stuff over this subject... so again I´m sorry for my "urge" in getting answers...

Ahoj,
Messias.

[jackdale]

The backstay adjuster along with the outhaul is a great way to power up or depower the main.