originally in conference Race__UNet
and was forwarded to you by ROBERT RAYFIELD.
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From: fishmeal@netcom.com (Paul Kamen)
Subject: Re: TUNING YACHT RIGS
Organization: Netcom Online Communications Services (408-241-9760 login: 
guest)
Here's my guide for tuning the Merit 25, some of which might be applicable:
Fishmeal's Algorithm for Tuning the Rig:
1) Loosen everything, and make sure there are no twists in the wires.
2) Set headstay length to be slightly longer than the current class
champ.
3) Tighten the uppers until you are afraid something might break, making
   sure that the masthead is centered (use tape measure from main halyard,
   wind must be nearly calm).
4) Tighten lowers to about 2/3 tension of uppers, sighting up sail track
   to keep mast in column.
5) Tighten backstay until you are afraid something will break.
6) Adjust aft lowers for desired mast bend.
7) Go sailing. If uppers on leeward side go slack in less than 15 knots
   of wind, they are too loose.
8) Adjust lowers so that mast bends only in vertical plane (check by
   sighting up sail track).
9) If you have ever seen a boat of the same size and type with less
   headstay sag, then the backstay is too loose.
10) Tighten aft lowers if you need a fuller main, loosen if you need
    a flatter main.
--
fishmeal@netcom.com
http://www.well.com/user/pk/fishmeal.html
                                                   -"Call me Fishmeal"-
 * OLX 2.1 TD * Notice: No high heels are allowed on the foredeck.
--- WM v3.11/93-0359
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