Shrouds and forestay

Posted By: Jay Levy - Indianapolis, IN 5.2 #35
Date: 1/7/07 8:55a.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: Turnbuckle Toggles (pic) (Bob V)

I think you need to go back to the original system that employs adjustable shroud tensioners. The shroud is attached to the adjuster via a clevis pin. The other end of the adjuster is attached to the chainplates on the deck, also via a clevis pin. See http://www.apsltd.com/Tree/d3000/e649.asp for examples. According to the Harpoon website, the shrouds need to be S.S. wire 1/8" (1x19), 17'8 5/8" long. I think that that is without including the length of the tensioner. With the original tensioners, tension is set to the "seventh hole". I could let you know what the actual distance is once you get the hardware in hand. As for the forestay, that IS adjusted with a turnbuckle "until quite tight" (according to the Harpoon Handbook). Make sure that the turnbuckle can't unwind by fixing it's position with cotter pins or rings and then tape the whole thing so that your sails don't get ripped on sharp edges. Use a good quality turnbuckle, i.e., stainless steel. My original was some cheap pot metal one that bent just like yours. This is definitely THE part on the boat that you don't want to fail!