Islander 28 Backstay Adjuster Preferences

[Paul Comte]

We own a Non-Split Backstay I28.

After making the hull repairs including the base plate under the Compression Post and adding a Mast Step Turning Block Plate (with fill of the dimple on cabin top), we can go forward with a Backstay Adjuster.

BTW, the repairs mentioned have actually changed the geometry of the rig to the point where the mast was leaning forward (a bunch). A toggle on the forestay helped but we took all the slack up in the backstay turnbuckle and need more tension.

I am leaning toward the Wichard 5526 that will cost about $525 US. We day sail, occasionally cruise but do drive the boat when out...

Anyone have suggestions or comments?

Paul Comte
Still un-named I28
Milwaukee WI

[kentg]

I have a Bahama 30, without a split backstay and will probably keep it simple. Shorten the backstay, add a Norseman style fitting so I can put in a triple block and use a mechanical backstay. Lots of racers do something simple like that. Cascade the blocks and you can double the purchase.

[Faster]

On a rig with in-line spreaders it's not advisable to but a multi part purchase directly into the backstay unless you also have a wire strop as a safety (ie set at the minimum tension setting). With swept spreaders it's unlikely the mast will fall down if the tackle fails or is accidentally let run free, but with inline spreaders the backstay is the only thing pulling back on the stick. This is probably why the split backstays are popular for adjustment.

I think hydraulics or mechanical 'screw' type adjusters are otherwise the way to go.

[joelozzy]

Paul,

I also found that the mast was leaning forward a bit after making the same repairs. I'm glad that I'm not the only one who observed this. Thought it was an illusion of the naked eye for the longest time.

I've still got the split backstays, so I just installed a couple of the Schaefer wire blocks over the split stays, connected to a triangle plate, which has the 3rd (lower) point connected to a double block w/becket. Line through this to a triple block mounted on deck (padeye) running to a rope clutch. The line was the max size for the clutch, actually acts like a natural brake when load is released - so doesn't 'SNAP' when released.

The backstay tensioner really improved upwind performance in 20+ knots of breeze.

I'd watch the amount of force put into the backstay, due to additional mast bend from the new 'forward lean' coupled with the fact that the spreaders are in-line with upper shrouds. Good luck. ~Joel