Anyone recognize this part? Jp3 Backstay tensioner

[sandycohen]

I am considering buying this backstay adjuster - it is supposedly from a beneteau 30 - I've never seen anything that looks like it, and the french company Jp3 doesn't list it on their website, and hasn't responded to my emails. The seller says there is block and tackle inside the cylinder - seems like an awful small cylinder to have oomphy tackle - anyone familiar with this setup? I have a 32' 9500# displacement masthead sloop.

thanks

[SlowButSteady]

It sorta reminds me of a "Magic box" one sees on dinghies (obviously it isn't, but it looks like it works on the same principle) . It must have a wire multi-part gizmo inside to give a big leverage advantage. The problem with such things is that it's probably impossible (or extremely difficult) to service if something breaks inside, and similarly difficult to inspect to prevent such failures. I would opt for an exposed set of blocks on a split backstay tensioner; much simpler and easier to inspect/service.

That the the company apparently doesn't carry this device any more should also tell you something.

[sandycohen]

Yeah I was thinking wire block and tackle also, but it just seems so darn small.

[sandycohen]

SO I bought it on ebay for $60 last night. I'm cautiously optimistic - seems like it could be the perfect device for me since I have a single backstay and don't want to change to a split one. But, I also don't want to cut my backstay to fit this and then find out it isn't strong enough or has another issue. Anyone have an idea how to test it under serious load to see if it has both sufficient purchase and strength for the real deal? Here's a picture of the inside.

[norsearayder]

sandy give me your email in a pm,we will chat..hull#20

[sandycohen]

Hi - I PM's you earlier - did you receive it?

My email is sandy at alexandercohen dot org