Helms 24 tuning
 

Hey everyone. I've got a '82 Helms 24 in need of tuning. I was wondering if anyone had a tuning guide. My pointing ability is terrible on starboard tack and better on port, so I am thinking the mast is not straight.
I'd also appreciate any tuning tips anyone might have.

Thanks!

Dan

Dan:

I have a Helms 25 which is a deck mounted mast. Is the 24 a keel mounted or deck mounted mast? I bought my Helms 25 used and never had a tuning manual. I bought Brian Toss's rig tuning DVD and it was very helpful for a beginner like me. He also has a web site you can Google and ask questions there.

It's a deck mounted mast. I probably should just walk the dock and take some measurements, there are 6-7 other Helms 24 at the club. I am just leary of making adjustments without knowing tolerances I guess.

Dan:

I'd have to review the DVD again, but a good start would be 10% of breaking strength for the lower shrouds and up to 15% of breaking strength for the upper shrouds and jibstay. A Loos professional gauge is worth the investment and tells you the breaking strength for different size wire.

Hmmm, thinking that mast isn't straight? So how do your halyards hang Chief? Start there, I've seen a host of mast wedgies made for Helms 25'er's fitted inside the mast step at the foot, I just haven't paid a lot of attn. to the 24's, yet... I've got running back stays (you probably don't) so I kind of know mine is bent, when I tell it to be so. Anyway see how it's hanging fore & aft as well as athwartship.
My Helms is a 76 and my Starboard everything is longer/bigger..meaning the hull isn't exactly symetrical, go figure, eh? And on a boat where nothing is plumb either. That may explain your pointing differential...