Is there a cheap way to gauge dinghy standing rigging tension?

[Salty John]

The rigger who checked my rigging did exactly that. There must be a formula for the note sounded by a given length and tension, so this may be a good idea.

It's a good idea but apparently very difficult to achieve with any degree of accuracy. A system of measuring the tension in steel reinforcing wire in structures by measuring the note produced when the wire is struck has been patented. The very low frequency of the sound - low tens of Hz - makes it very difficult and, as a result, the process to measure these low frequencies very complex and expensive. Such low frequencies are difficult for the human ear to 'measure', I'm informed, so twanging a stay is more likely to provide a subjective measure of its tension from the resistance felt to the finger rather than the sound it makes.

 

[Rossynant]

On small dinghy tension that sounds may be too much; how strong this hull is? But by ear is very good way, once you have knowledge of your boat (and ears not damaged from earphones...). At least can be checked if both sides sound similar.

 

[Iain C]

Dan...sign up for the "dinghies and dinghy bits for sale" group on Facebook and there's a couple of gauges on there cheap cheap...

 

[Greenheart]

Dan...sign up for the "dinghies and dinghy bits for sale" group on Facebook and there's a couple of gauges on there cheap cheap...

Good thought, thanks. I don't do FB myself, but I'll see if SWMBO can find it.

 

[Rossynant]

https://www.facebook.com/groups/dinghies/ · Dinghies and Dinghy Bits for Sale the one?

 

[Greenheart]

Thanks for that. Good to know rig tension gauges aren't always heaps of cash...although I wonder if their condition is reflected by the price?

 

[Lakesailor]

Forget getting technical. Just get on the water and sail around a bit. It's more important to get the rake about right and the mast central.