TOPIC:

Many of the published tuning guides and reference materials state that albacore sails best with the mast in the full forward position (mast heel position). I think its 3300mm from aft transom to mast face at heel.
Whats the principle behind this? Neutralize weather helm? More overlap of jib/main?
Thoughts? Allan
Northern Aggression CAN8088

www.boatdesign.net/forums/boat-design/ma...-equation-32991.html



Interesting?FOWLER2010-06-05 16:09:58

Hi Allan,

This was a point of some interest on this forum about a year ago, my notion is that having max forward mast heel in all conditions, it is then difficult to get the mast forward enough on the offwind legs, my normal heavy weather position is max forward but light weather is about 50mm further aft making the mast more upright, It certainly works for me, especially on flat water.

Phill Smith at that time, was very much in favour of the max forward position, perhaps if he reads this he will explain the theory.

All the best

Crawfy

Crawfy, Fowler, Thanks for the notes

Some of the mast position considerations might be different in North America. The mast too far forward problem isn't an issue with fixed shrouds, as we sail downwind with mast rammed fully aft. In fact, a fully forward mast should provide more aft rake.
I'm going to experiment a bit. Allan Northern Aggression CAN8088

Hi All,



Been away last week so haven't been online.




I keep my mast foot as far forward as possible and have my centre board as far back as possible, to reduce the centre of lateral resitence and minimise the effect of weather helm. ( I once read a Finn tuning guide, but know can't find it) I sail with big sails, stiff mast, but lots of spreader draft, although I am fine tuning the spreader draft at the moment. With a mast strutt, adjustable shrouds and Jib tension, mixing this all up and applying Fermats last thereom. I have decided not to adjust the position of the mast foot at this time, concentrate on sailing and keeping my head out of the boat.



Cheers



Phil

A6504 "Nemesis"



ps I think the mast foot position is more sensertive if you use low aspect jibs, I use a high aspect jib