In the enclosed diagram, drawing (1) shows my current setup. I don't know if this is original or just plain wrong, but I don't trust 'em!
There is no way to adjust the length of any of the rods that make up the spreader assembly. There is also no spreader rake (negative rake, actually!) I don't think this is dangerous, because the rigid spreader bars should prevent mast inversion, but it seems kind of weird! Is this dangerous and should it be replaced asap? That's my main question.
It is my understanding that with this setup, all I can do is adjust the lateral stiffness of the mast (below the hounds). There is no way I can induce forward-aft bend to flatten the sail. Down haul would be working against the negative rake, and pointless IMHO. The only way I can flatten the sail is by loosening the diamond wires. Am I right, or am I just paranoid?
In the attached diagram I have drawn (2) the situation as I think it should be. Do you agree with this or have I got it wrong somewhere. Note I did omit some detail from the diagram, because I don't have all night ;-) I think this setup would be safer for the mast because it would allow the mast to bend (fore-aft) with tight diamond wires and some down haul on. I think this is what Rick recommends in his book, but I may have got ot wrong somehow.
Thanks in advance, Dennis
PS: I can live with sub-optimal, my main concern is safety!
