HI, Mark, Phill,



Thanks for getting back to me.

My post isn't terribly clear. I'm definitely not contemplating using my prebend to affect rotation. Like you, I devoutly believe the curve of the mast must be appropriate (Note, not "identical") to the luff curve of the sail, and I plan to continue to follow my sailmaker's advice on how much the mast actually is pre-bent.

I'm considering if spreader rake, without changing prebend amount, can be used to affect how the mast rotates. I completely agree that the amount the mast is pre-bent must not be changed when considering a different spreader rake.



In looking over your post, I see where we might be disconnecting, here. Are you guys saying that if your mast exhibits a certain amount of prebend, say, an inch, and you rake your spreaders more, then tune your diamonds for that same inch of prebend, you still have a different rig? My point is, it'll rotate differently; what else is different? (Provided you still have an inch of prebend)



I guess the paramount question is: How far can you rake your spreaders without causing your mast to fail?

(One hint on this question: The tangs on my mast which attach to my diamonds, the top ones, are aimed at a point further aft than the tips of my spreaders are at now. Does this imply the mast is engineered to tolerate more radically raked spreaders?)



Thanks again for taking the time to consider this; I hope I've been clearer this time.