Backstay adjuster on Jeanneau 40 SO

[wildspirit1]

I am re-rigging a Sun Odyssey 40 which is a mast head sloop.
I am receiving conflicting advice about whether to incorporate a backstay adjuster.
Anyone got experience of this?
Is it worthwhile?

 

[Mudplugger]

Not specifically related to the Jeanneau, but perhaps the answer would depend on the type of sailing that you intend.
Being able to crank up the tension on the forestay, when going to windward to point higher and faster, and slacken when off the wind certainly seems to improve overall performance. However I suspect (waiting for the Flack!) that most of my fellow cruising compatriots would not bother... /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

 

[Cerddinen]

A backstay adjuster is more relevant on a fractionally rigged boat. Unless you are planning to race it is unlikely to be of any value. A folding prop would give a greater increase in performance in all conditions. Making the genoa cars adjustable from the cockpit would allow better setting of the genoa. Moving to a loose-fitting main would allow the main to be more adjustable.

 

[Tranona]

Was just debating the same issue with a very experienced rigger. My Bavaria is fractionally rigged and has a split backstay with an adjuster. It has never been touched from new. Pointless really as it has furling mainsail so bending the mast will affect reefing and have absolutely no effect on mainsail shape!

Conclusion from my rigger - fashion item like rod kickers in the same set up.

Hard hat on!

 

[William_H]

Mudplugger is right in that it is totally a personal preference. I have a fractional rig and adjusting backstay is a normal part of sailing.
As said mast head rigs tend to have much less effect from backstay adjustment. Cranking on the backstay can increase tension so reduce curve of the forestay so flattening the jib and also in conjunction with a tight inner forestay put some bend in the mast to faltten to a degree.the mainsail.

I would suggest that Wildspirit 2 fits split backstay ie branching into 2 about 2 metres above the transom. A bottle screw is fitted above the split.
A tensioner can then be fabricated latter if you want to try it consisting of a pair of pulleys on a plate which slides up and down the split wires. ie pulled down it will pull the wires together so tensioning the backstay.
If you stay with one backstay wire to the transom you will need to fit a turnscrew with wheel drive to adjust or a hydraulic tensioner. Both a bit expensive as a retrofit.

Should you do it? I dunno Certainly a folding prop will give more performance improvement. I suggest you wait until you feel the urge after getting the boat into service. good luck olewill