Typhoon Backstay

Dick Villamil · Post by **Dick Villamil** » Dec 19th, '07, 21:11

I am about to have a new backstay with open turnbuckle made up for my Typhoon. What are the thoughts about keeping the clip for the end of the boom on the backstay versus using a topping lift? If I stay with the clip - should I have it installed lower on the backstay or in the same place?

I had my monthly boating fix today as I brushed off 18" of snow from the cover - I could almost hear the trailer heave a sigh of relief from the removal of the extra 600 pounds of weight.

Tod Mills · Post by **Tod Mills** » Dec 19th, '07, 23:37

Dick,

I would definitely recommend an arrangement other than a pigtail on the backstay. The pigtail arrangement can be a source of problems in heavy air because it holds the boom near the centerline requiring the helmsman to stand up and pull on the boom with one hand and unhook with the other. In heavy air, an accidental gybe while doing that could be not so good.

You could use a topping lift arranged any number of ways - mine hooks onto the end of the boom, runs up through a small block at the masthead, and down to the foot of the mast where it is adjustable (adjustable is good).

Some folks like rigid vangs to accomplish boom support.

<img width=540 src=http://www.htmills.com/images/BuscaCharging.jpg>[/img]

Paul McCary · Post by **Paul McCary** » Dec 20th, '07, 07:29

Our Ty had both the backstay clip and a topping lift. For most occasions, the topping lift provided more function (e.g. reefing), but when we left the boat on its mooring, we always just clipped the boom onto the backstay clip. I suppose if you add a topping lift you could call the clip unnecessary, but to me it was part of the original design and I thought the boat always looked nicer (looking back on the row in) when the boom + sailcover was stowed at that "just slightly severe" angle that the backstay clip provided. Plus it can't cost much to add on the clip. I'd do both.

ronkberg · Post by **ronkberg** » Dec 23rd, '07, 12:36

I have just the pigtail and use it when my Typhoon is sitting on her mooring or under motor in/our of the mooring field. What other use would I get from adding the topping lift? Is it used for sail shaping, and if so on which point(s) of sail?

I do not have a boom vang but have also thought about adding one for sail shaping. Is that going to give me added advantage to beat my local Kittywake competitor?

Happy holidays to all,

Ron

Steve Laume · Post by **Steve Laume** » Dec 23rd, '07, 18:22

The topping lift makes reefing so much easier. If you want to play with those Kittywakes you might want a boom vang and a traveler. A big headsail might be unfair but who cares if you are out front? I used to use the pig tail only when sitting on the mooring once I installed a topping lift. The Typhoon is such a great boat, Steve.

nprice · Post by **nprice** » Dec 23rd, '07, 18:22

I have always just used the pigtail on the back stay and it never seems to have been a problem. Boom vang is a definite help to control sail shape on a reach or run. I also added an adjustment to the back stay when I had a new one made up so the tension in the forestay can be adjusted. probably more help on the daysailor which has a masthead rig as opposed to the weekender which has a 3/4 rig.
Picture of both at http://www.nickprice.org.uk/typhoon.htm
Nick

Sea Hunt · Post by **Sea Hunt** » Dec 23rd, '07, 19:18

"Pattie B" II is GORGEOUS

Especially the last two pixs of her on her mooring.

ronkberg · Post by **ronkberg** » Dec 24th, '07, 09:10

Nick, Pattie B II looks like she is a big cruiser with additional portals and push/pulpits.......but no life lines, interesting

. The photo makes me feel like pulling my trailer up the road and launch but the reality of 42 degrees and 3' snow bankings will keep me in the condo watching the nice Saco Bay surf. I also looked at some of the photos of sailboats in the UK........but the Maine shots of the Typhoon are the best, IMHO !!

Thanks for the photos and it has convinced me to add a boom vang and a topping lift.

Ron

Dick Villamil · Post by **Dick Villamil** » Dec 24th, '07, 09:50

Thanks for all the great comments - looks like Victoria will get both a topping lift and pigtail. I will also be redoing the boom vang and adding another track forward of the jib track I already have - Thanks to those fabulous images of Patty B et al. If only I could learn to post images I have some of Victoria that I would live to share. I am glad that I removed the 18" of snow from her cover - this meltdown did the rest and now her cover is clear - wish I could go for a sail but winter is still in control up here in Vermont!:D

nprice · Post by **nprice** » Dec 24th, '07, 10:47

Thanks for the comments!
Ron, She's just an ordinary Typhoon weekender but a previous owner had put the extra windows in. Never had the life lines either but she was a great little ship. As we only daysail in Maine the open Typhoon is more practical, with 6 or even 8 in the cockpit. If you'd like to pop over to Phippsburg and brush the snow off Pattie B Too, that would be great! You'll find her under a blue tarpaulin. Couldn't sail this past weekend ecause of little wind and 3+ knots of current on the Thames but hope to get out Boxing Day!
Nick

The Cape Dory Board

Typhoon Backstay

Typhoon Backstay

pigtail vs masthead

Clip vs. topping lift

Topping Lift and/or pigtail and vang need?

Reefing

Interesting mods to Pattie B II

typhoon backstay