Wind powered generator pole supports

[bumblefish]

Sorry about the long subject! Just about to install the support rods for my generator pole. Should I position these so the the rod and deck fittings are under compression or tension? Balsa core deck, supports rods at 90 degrees, pole clamped to pushpit and deck.

 

[rob2]

That will depend on the nature of the ends. E.g. if they will take compression by way of bottoming out, whilst under compression they hang on a locking pin, then that would be the way to go. Either way is good if they are firmly affixed and no local stressing to the deck.
On my boat, with a small generator, I don't have any bracing - but I'm watching carefully for any signs of crazing due to flex.

 

[pappaecho]

Your answers may well depend on what type of mooring you have. Mine is a swinging mooring, which means the boat heads obviously to wind, so that the wind generator masthead is normally forced backwards by the wind so that the brace forward is under tension.
I have a second brace which prevents lateral side to side movement and so this is under both compression and tension.
The boat spends the majority of its time on the mooring, when the above applies. When sailing then obviously anything goes!