Bending on the Headsail on a Fractional Rig

[Paul366]

When bending on the Head Sail on a Fractional rig, is it easier for the head sail to slide up the groove in the foil with either; more backstay tension? or less backstay tension?

 

[sarabande]

Depends if the increased backstay tension causes the mast to bow forward at the forestay attachment point, or whether the spreaders and mast section keep the mast 'in column'.

If you are experiencing difficulty with the sail sliding up the groove, then the slot might need cleaning and some PTFE lube, or the forestay could be too saggy and hence a lot of lateral friction. Do you have any problem dropping the sail ?

 

[johnalison]

I wouldn’t have thought it would make much difference. Any increased curvature would be very small. What matters is not having too much tension when furling or unfurling, and not tensioning the sail more than the rig.

 

[flaming]

When bending on the Head Sail on a Fractional rig, is it easier for the head sail to slide up the groove in the foil with either; more backstay tension? or less backstay tension?

Shouldn't make any difference, however if you are a "set halyard tension in the spring and forget" type sailor, then set the tension with the backstay tight. Otherwise you risk over stretching the luff when you apply backstay.