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" .

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

Reichard Kahle 1767

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.

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

DB

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.

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