Backstay Eye Bolt location

[Ralph Merkle]

I was just reviewing some video I had shot at the regatta held in Orlando this past April . I began to notice some variation in the location of the back stay eye bolt . Going back to Mark Rinehart and Rick West's EC-12 Construction Layout plans , that location is at the 56 in. point with no tolerance given . I thought this dimension was cast in concrete but looking in the EC-12 manual by Bob Wells this dimension is 56 3/4 inches . Which is correct or are these just "suggested" locations ? A similar problem exists with a crane dimension . See my entry under "Sails and Rigs" .

[kahle67]

The back stay attachment point can be located anywhere as long as it does not extend beyond the transom.

Reichard Kahle 1767

[Gene Rosson]

Why not put use a chain plate attached to the transom for the back stay? Reasons....transom is strong enough, and installation is simple. Putting the backstay farthest aft will reduce mast compession a little bit.

[DBrawner]

Gene:
We move the backstay attachment point forward to avoid tangling with another boat as they ride across your stern.

DB

[Gene Rosson]

Thanks for the advice DB. It makes good sense but it seems a trifle. If a port tack skipper is trying to duck under the stern he has about 3 or 4 inches more space when the backstay is forward. OK I'll put my backstay forward somewhere and play the odds, even if it's only three inches worth.

[yachtie]

Ralph, as Dave Brawner says - as far forward to forget tangles.

I moved an eyelet as farc forward as possible to miss the boom and sail. I still have an eylet right by the transom which leads forward and then up witha bowsie to tension to the back stay.

Since doin this I have had NO [:D] hook ups with other boats. Sure as hell beats the "close calls" with sharp pointy bits inside the back stay. [:D][:D][8D]

Chris
NZL1 Longtack
&
NZL110 Swept Away