back stay tension

[dvpamenter]

Hi. I have a split backstay and while I hav sailed for years I have always questioned the backstay tension. Down wind loose and windward taut, but when taut what is the correct ratio to breaking strength?
Don

[SEMIJim]

On our Pearson 30, I found out where 15% was and called that "max." Some racers crank it down so hard they craze and crack things. N.B.: In about 10 kts the other day, going to weather, flying a 150, I cranked until the bow person told me the forestay looked good. I still wasn't at the 15% point.

Jim

[Mark1948]

Like every other adjustment, the shape of the sail will give you the correct information.