Main Traveler backing

[Gramp28]

Hi all,
I'm looking for some advice regarding backing a new main traveler and its proving to be more difficult than I thought (surprise surprise) My Grampian 28 originally had a very short traveler, and someone took it out and used a fixed point on the cabin top. I'm not a fan of this setup and am installing a new and much longer Lewmar kit in the cockpit. It will be a 3/4 boom mainsheet setup. What is the best backing material to use with this since it will have a high load put on it? Metal, Wood? anything else I should be aware of?
Thanks!
Matt

[sailingdog]

Use Garolite G10 fiberglass. You can buy this material in various thicknesses. I'd recommend using 3/8" thick garolite and back the bolts with fender washers. 3/8" garolite has a rating of 50,000 PSI IIRC. It is easier to work with than stainless steel, doesn't rot like wood, and doesn't present galvanic corrosion issues like aluminum. It isn't cheap.

[svHyLyte]

Once you have sufficient posts to permit you to do so, post a few snaps of your cockpit and indicate where you plan to place the traveller. If I recall correctly your main is only about 175 SF so your mainsheet loading will not be that great even in extreme conditions. If you're bridging between the cockpit benches you'll likely only need a modest bridgework.

FWIW...

[BigZ]

Depends no the thickness of the area where you are attaching the track and if the bolts are constant all the way across. If the area is thick enough you could get by with just normal washers, or fender washers if you have room.
I have a Ranger 26 that is held by no. 10 machine screws and typical washers. The load is spread across the track so it might not be as evil as you think.
G-10 is probably overkill, and isn't all that fun to work with. Fender washers or aluminum plate (if you're in fresh water) should be fine.