New stays, mast rake, lee helm?
Posted: Thu Aug 10, 2017 8:19 am
I installed new stays on my DS-II last weekend. My mast (with tabernacle) was shortened a couple inches by a PO at some point, and I had to mount the mast tangs higher for the new stays. This operation was complicated by the fact that the new forestay with QR lever was 2-7/8" longer than the old forestay (1-1/4" longer than the sidestays). It appears that I estimated the new tang positions incorrectly because I now have much more lee helm. Under single-reefed main alone with board all the way down, the boat is just about balanced sailing flat close hauled. Noticeable weather helm returns as it heals in gusts. Under double-reefed main and jib with the board all the way down, lee helm is significant. Previously, the boat was balanced with double-reefed main and jib with the board all the way down. I liked this setup because I could control weather helm with any other sail arrangement by raising the board a bit. I know I need more mast rake, but how much?
As setup now, I can tighten the sidestay turnbuckles about an inch before having to move the sidestay tangs. I can only loosen the forestay 1/2" before moving the tang. So, I suspect I will have to move the tang for the forestay. But, I am hoping that someone can give me an idea of how much I need to move the stays before I start drilling more holes.
Thanks for your help.
As setup now, I can tighten the sidestay turnbuckles about an inch before having to move the sidestay tangs. I can only loosen the forestay 1/2" before moving the tang. So, I suspect I will have to move the tang for the forestay. But, I am hoping that someone can give me an idea of how much I need to move the stays before I start drilling more holes.
Thanks for your help.