[grampi2000]

Larry,I am planning to do the same thing on a grampian26(Canadian built boat)and was asking my self the same questions you do.Thanks to george for the answer on the stays angle,one problem solved.Besides this important element of the modification and like george said it,I am aware of creating a leehelm problem by moving forward the center of effort.Creating leehelm is not desired at all for safety reasons and would generate some drag that could counteract the increased power of the added sail surface.I see two options to rebalance the boat;Move aft the base of the mast and the chainplates with structural reinforcement under the base of the mast.True cutters have their mast set well aft,abaft 40 percent of the waterline lenght.This I guess,to compensate the fact that their foretriangle is larger than the mainsail.This brings me to the second option of a larger mainsail(full battened?) instead of moving the mast.I think it could be a viable one and would generate some more power that you are looking for.Good luck with your project!You can take a look at the way I am planning to install my bowsprit on my web site at www.geocities.com/grampi2000/grampian26.html

grampi2000