Backstay hardware question

[superdave]

Hello all! I'm looking for a type of backstay adjuster for my 23' Coronado... simply put, it's too much work to re-adjust the tension with the turnbuckle I currently have, every time I raise the mast. I don't really need anything that does live adjustment - it's not a fractional rig, and the occasional re-tension doesn't have to be fast and easy. I'm really only looking for a quick-snap lever type thing; I'll bet many of you know exactly what I'm talking about.

The problem is, when I search for "backstay adjuster" online, I find more of the true adjusters - priced waaaayyyy outside of the range of money I'm willing to throw into this particular hole-in-the-water. A semi-local shop said they have a small one for about $80 - not a bad price - but I wanted to look for used/salvaged/discount items. So here is my question: does anyone know what I should be calling this device? Bonus points if you can point me to some good deals, etc., but the simpler question is probably enough for me.

Thanks to all!

And Giu, if you're reading this, GREAT! Welcome back.

[sailingfool]

Sounds to me like you want a "quick release lever". Try defender.com.

[sailingdog]

What you want is called a Hyfield lever. It is often used for solent stays and removable inner forestays and allows you to easily re-tension a stay after setting it back up. Johnson rigging and a few other companies make them.

[superdave]

Great help, guys - found some at WorstMarine. The small size only holds a 500lb working load; it seems like I would be in that category, but my research can't seem to turn up any info on my boat's sail loads. Any ideas on if the 500lb size will work?

Thanks for the help!

[sailingfool]

Answer that question by matching the breaking strength of the backstay wire - post your wire size and you will get help. Realize that harware like this is only meant for use on daysailers, not small cruisers. For your boat you would want to look at something like ABI Forestay Levers where you see that convenience comes with a price.

[negrini]

Dave, down here, those boats in yours size use simple blocks reduction (6:1 or 8:1) with a good lenght of spectra. A snap shackle make it easy to remove, while allowing for live adjustments.

[sailingdog]

SF has a good point... the ABI Forestay levers are pretty good, but a bit pricey. It all depends on what loads you need to deal with. What boat is this?

[superdave]

It's a Coronado 23mkII, 23' with a shoal draft keel. I don't know the wire thickness, though. I don't think I can swing the price tags on the ABI levers...

[sailingdog]

A 23' boat will probably be alright with the ones you're finding at westmarine. I doubt your backstay is much more than 5/32 or so. 5/32" wire has a breaking strength of about 3300 lbs and a working load of about 350-500 lbs. Look HERE to see different ones.