MKIV hydraulic unit 3
29
Operation
Halyard: Headstay Tension
Backstay adjusters
Backstay adjusters allow headstay tension to be varied to change sail shape to
match conditions. They permit a very tight headstay to be eased when boat is
not in use. For best performance, consider adding a backstay adjuster; a
mechanical adjuster like those offered by Harken, or a hydraulic adjuster.
Remember to keep headstay tight for best performance when furling or reefing.
If your boat is fitted with an adjuster be sure that it is tensioned
before
the halyard
is tensioned. If not, backstay adjuster can increase halyard tension and could
damage the sail or furling system.
Racing boats often slack the headstay completely when sailing downwind. Check
to be sure that foil does not jam against upper headstay terminal when backstay
is released. To prevent this, it may be necessary to shorten foil slightly.
On many boats, it is not possible to attach the
spinnaker halyard to bow pulpit because it may be
"sucked" into the jib when furling.
On some boats the spinnaker halyard lays across
headstay and will catch on halyard swivel, foils, or
jib halyard. To prevent problems, it may be necessary
to install a masthead bail to move spinnaker halyard
block forward and to one side.
Boats with external halyards may find it necessary to
flip both ends of spinnaker halyard behind spreaders
to prevent fouling the furling system.
Headstay tension
A furling system will work best if headstay is tight.
A loose headstay is difficult to rotate and can cause
unusual wear on foil joints.
To adjust headstay tension, remove sail and follow
instructions on page 27.
Tip: Before adjusting headstay tension, slack
mainsheet and vang.
Spinnaker halyards
Spinnaker halyards occasionally cause problems
with furling.
Using hydraulic length adjuster
Use reference lines on guide rod to help repeat settings. Make sure mainsheet
and vang are eased. Use adjuster to set length (especially when using two furlers) to
make sure the desired furler is tensioned when the backstay is tensioned.
WARNING! In severe cases, spinnaker
halyards can jam furler causing loss of
control. Make sure all halyards
are clear of furling unit action.