Rigging Tensiometer

[Motley]

Hi everyone,

Not sure if this is the right area but I couldn't see anywhere more appropriate.

I'm looking to buy a rigging tensiometer. I already tried the online catalogues of both West and Budget Marine without luck. How do I order one?

Steve.

[FrankZ]

Are you looking for this?

[ChrisClipper]

just search for a loos rig gauge or Rig Tendioners.
FrankZ has it right, those are excellent gauges.

[GordMay]

I also recommend the Loos tensionometers.
➥ Representative Locator

➥ How To Use Tension Gauges (1 of 2) - Cruisers & Sailing Photo Gallery
➥ How to Use Tension Gauges (2 of 2) - Cruisers & Sailing Photo Gallery

[hellosailor]

Steve, if you're looking to install a strain gauge and get constant readouts...no, West won't sell that high end stuff.

But for routine rig tuning and checkups? The Loos gauges are the standard tools. Get the one that matches your rigging sizes (thicknesses).

[MarcW]

Mister Seldon uses this method

Quote

The folding rule method”
29
The following materials are required:
1. A 2 metre long measuring rod
(a folding rule is recommended)
2. Adhesive tape
3. Vernier callipers
• Start with the cap shrouds only hand-tight. The rig is stayed
with the lower shrouds and the forestay and backstay.
• Tape the upper end of the folding rule to the starboard
cap shroud. The lower end of the folding rule must be
approximately 5 mm above the upper end of the wire
terminal. Measure the distance between terminal and
folding rule exactly. This is index 0, let’s call it point A.
• Tension the starboard cap shroud until the distance is
A + 1.5 mm between the terminal and the folding rule.
Measure using the vernier callipers.
• Leave the folding rule attached to the starboard shroud,
and move across to the port side and tension the shroud
rigging screw the equivalent amount.
• At intervals, check the starboard side to see how much
the folding rule has moved from the end terminal. When
there is a gap of A + 3 mm, the cap shrouds are tensioned
to 15% of the breaking load of the wire (3 x 5% = 15%).
If the mast is not straight, adjust the lower shrouds, intermediate
shrouds etc. There is more information on this in
the chapter dealing with your rig type.
The folding rule method can be used on other stays, such
as the backstay and forestay (without jib furling system).
It can also be used for Dyform- or rod rigging, but please
take the difference in stretch into account compared to
1 x 19 wire.
2 m
Incorrect.
Hint! Count how many turns on
the rigging screw corresponds to
1 mm elongation (5% of the
breaking load). Make a note of it.
This is useful to know if you ever
need to tension “another 5%”.
A
A+ 3 mm
1 x 19 wire Dyform Rod
5% of breaking load 1 mm 0.95 mm 0.7 mm
Stretch per 2 meter
Correct.

More than one way to skin a cat.

[Motley]

Golly gee, you fellas know EVERYTHING!

Seriously though; thanks a lot for a prompt and perfect reply.

Steve.