shroud tension

Posted By: Bernard Atkinson
Date: 2/10/08 5:48p.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: shrould tension (Charley-487)

I had just installed new shroud adjusters when I got the unequal port and stbd numbers. These adjusters were of noticeably inferior quality to the old ones (thinner material, with the bottom clevis pin having a spring-loaded retaining mechanism securing it instead of a separate retaining ring), but the originals were bent on the bottom and I thought it would be good to put new ones on. Today I unstepped the mast, checked the hole placement and length of shrouds, and after everything seemed okay re-stepped it, only to have the port shroud adjuster fail while I was fastening the forestay. The spring-loaded clevis pin opened up, disconnecting the adjuster from the chainplate. The mast wobbled and I just managed to catch it while it was still upright. After getting the mast down I reattached the old shroud adjusters, stepped the mast again and measured the tension: 200 lbs on both sides. Perfect. (I'd send a picture of the offending hardware but I haven't figured out how to do that yet.) I think I learned to leave well enough alone - don't replace things that are working fine. And if you do, use good quality parts. Thanks again for all of your concern and counsel. Everyone on this message board is an invaluable resource. And I'm not through with this boat. yet.