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Post by Andy Stevenson » Mon Oct 10, 2005 11:00 am

Re: Mast rake

Post by awallin » Tue Oct 11, 2005 7:19 am

andy111 wrote: I know each boat’s going to be different, but is there a rule on thumb that’ll get me started?

Post by Steve Landeau » Wed Oct 12, 2005 3:41 am

Post by Lester » Wed Oct 12, 2005 8:04 am

Steve Landeau wrote: The way I set up my boat is with a series of holes (usually 5) about 3-4mm apart

Post by Andy Stevenson » Wed Oct 12, 2005 10:56 am

Post by peter spence » Wed Oct 12, 2005 1:00 pm

Post by Lester » Wed Oct 12, 2005 1:13 pm

peter spence wrote: I rarely adjust it once I have found a happy medium setting

Post by peter spence » Wed Oct 12, 2005 2:55 pm

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Attainable Adventure Cruising

The Offshore Voyaging Reference Site

• Rig Tuning, Part 2—Understanding Rake and Bend

In Part 1 we got the mast upright so it was not leaning over to one side or the other.

Now let’s set the fore and aft rake and bend.

But before we set off on that long and winding road, we need to make sure we really understand the theory of tuning. That’s what this chapter is about.

Yeah, I know, we would all much rather I just jumped into a step-by-step guide.

I get that but there are just too many variables to come at tuning that way.

Rather, each of us must clearly understand how all the different factors interact before we start twiddling turnbuckles.

The good news is that Part 3 is a step by step guide to setting rake, prebend and getting the mast straight…but first you need to read this.

Why? Because by understanding the theory each of us will be able to deal with pretty much any tuning situation —way better than monkey read, monkey tune.

Let’s do it:

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Good explanation of rake and bend. One note on rake is that boat trim really matters. An awful lot of boats are down by the stern and only get worse with people in the cockpit. On our own boat, we had to relocate batteries and a few other items to get the fore and aft trim right and then we run very little rake, just enough that it looks right.

Even weirder looking to me than a boat with no or negative rake is a schooner or ketch with equal or decreasing rake as you go aft. Many of the older schooners used rake for a totally different purpose (mitigating bad slatting) but that is an aside.

I am seeing an increasing number of boats around us that have masthead geometries that are setup so that as you increase backstay tension, you also increase bend but that may be out of the scope of what you want to cover.

Good point on trim. Thanks for the reminder, I will put that in part 3.

As to increasing bend with backstay tension, I wrote about that a bit under Backstay adjusters in the above and will expand on it in the chapter on the final tune under sail.

In one of the sillier projects of my long and disastrous career, I was hired by an American/Hong Kong consortium to convert an aluminum 12 meter into the only 24 passenger USCG certified America’s Cup boat on the planet. We bought the boat, two masts, and a container full of sails for about the cost of an new Catalina and then had it shipped from Long Island NY to Seattle in the middle of the winter. I got a call from the truck driver from somewhere in North Dakota where he had gotten jammed up trying to maneuver the 90 foot masts into a place to purchase trip permits. Once out of that town he hit upon the perfect solution. He just drove non-stop to Seattle with no permits but a lot of Mother’s little helpers. (a la Grace Slick/ Jefferson Airplane)

As I was unpacking the container I came across a giant hydraulic cylinder about 3″ in diameter & 6′ long.. Turns out that it was used to change the mast rake by moving the butt while underway. Standard sailing procedure involved throwing the mast head forward about 6′ on every downwind leg.

Among the other oddities of the rig was the mast weight rule. Since they had to weigh 1,000 pounds, the masts were chemically etched to reduce weight and then ballasted with lead in the base. Peculiar to the NYYC team, they had reduced the weight of the masthead lock to the point where it regularly jammed, requiring that a crew member be sent aloft to beat on it with a hammer before sail changes. Their other solution was to spray the sail track with silicone, thus ensuring that the Australian sand in the air was captured for posterity.

Fun with boats.

Hi Richard,

I love these stories of yours, although they must be more fun in the telling than the living.

Funny the things people have done with old Americas Cup boats. Ted Turner converted the old wooden 12 meter “American Eagle” to use for ocean racing. I use the term converted loosely, in that he did not change much and the rig was pretty much the same as designed for racing in Block Island Sound. Ted sold her to fellow Bermudian Warren Brown who continued to ocean race her. A friend of mine crewed on her and his stories of dealing with that rig offshore and at night will make your blood run cold. Eventually they dropped the rig over the side on a trans-Atlantic race. Just imagine motoring back to land on a 12 with no rig!

Hi John, In that same era that you describe, the 6 meter Worlds were held in Seattle. We were out spectating when the wind returned to it’s normal summer force of zero. We towed Turner back to the dock but didn’t even get a thank-you to say nothing of a beer.

On my conversion of NYYC 42 I built a custom full batten mainsail system using Harken traveler track because ball bearing systems that large hadn’t been developed yet. Cut out the mid deck and welded in two 12 passenger longitudinal seats. Adapted hydraulic motors to all winches. Powered it with a 70hp Suzzie similar to the Beta you have in MC.

In principle you could singlehand the boat once it was done, the only problem being that by that stage in 12 meter development they had reduced the size of the rudder to the point where you had to tack the boat using the main to assist the rudder. Perhaps throwing the mast back and forth was part of race maneuvering as well! LOL

We may laugh at the silly products of Rules, but on the other hand back then no one would have thought of racing in the Southern Ocean on flush deck open cockpit boats that are continually swept by waves like the current Volvo boats.

John, some queries: how do these parameters change for deck-stepped masts; how do two backstays affect the issue (save for counting identical turns), and how do running backs, which are eased or tensioned according to point of sail and/or conditions, affect pre-bend and rake in the sense that they aren’t always in use?

Good questions. I will be covering most all of them in the next three chapters.

For double backstays counting turns won’t tell you anything since that would require them to be identical in length and that the two chain plates where exactly the same distance from the top of the mast. The chances of that are slim to none. However, I will share how to get them close enough to the same tension in the next chapter.

Did I miss something? You said to set the rake, but I seem to have missed the part about how to do that.

Hi Cynthia,

See part 3 for specific steps. I will make that more clear, thanks.

Part 2 (above) is about the theory of rake and prebend. A drag to go through all that first, I know, but if we don’t understand how all the variables interact first, actually setting rake won’t go well.

Mast Rake: The Key to Optimal Sail Performance

by Emma Sullivan | Aug 11, 2023 | Sailboat Racing

== Short answer mast rake: == Mast rake refers to the angle at which a sailboat’s mast leans backward from vertical. It affects the balance, performance, and control of the boat. More rake provides better downwind performance while less rake enhances upwind ability. Adjusting mast rake is crucial for optimal sailing depending on wind conditions and racing rules.

What is Mast Rake? A Comprehensive Guide for Sailboat Enthusiasts

Ahoy, sailboat enthusiasts ! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of mast rake. If you’ve ever wondered about this crucial aspect of sailboat performance and its impact on your sailing experience, then hoist your sails and settle in as we offer a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the intricacies of mast rake like a seasoned sailor.

Mast rake refers to the angle at which the mast leans backward from vertical when viewed from the side or front of the boat . Although seemingly insignificant, this subtle tilt plays a crucial role in shaping a sailboat’s performance characteristics. So let’s get technical and explore both the functional and aesthetic aspects of mast rake.

Functionality-wise, mast rake influences how efficiently a sailboat can harness the power of wind. By adjusting the amount of tilt, sailors can fine-tune their boat’s balance, stability, and performance across different wind conditions. With too much rake, a sailboat gains added weather helm (the tendency for boats to want to turn into the wind) but potentially sacrifices overall speed. Conversely, too little rake can result in lee helm (the tendency for boats to want to turn away from the wind), creating instability while pointing upwind but possibly providing better downwind performance.

Moreover, mast rake affects how weight is distributed along your sailboat. By leaning back slightly or increasing forward lean (rarely used), you can alter where lift forces are applied on your sails—either closer to the luff (leading edge) or further toward their leeches (trailing edges). This manipulation matters because it impacts how well your sails work together with other elements such as keel and rudder.

Now that we’ve covered some technicalities, let’s dive into why mast rake is intriguing beyond its functionality—the aesthetics! Mast rake has long been associated with a sleek appearance that evokes a sense of speed and performance. Just envision a sailboat with its mast leaning backward, slicing through the water with grace and elegance—what a sight to behold!

However, it’s important to note that aesthetics alone cannot dictate your mast rake setting. While you might be tempted to go for looks alone, keep in mind that achieving an optimal balance between functionality and aesthetics is key . So even if an intense lean gives your boat a snazzy look, it might harm your performance—an unwelcome tradeoff when competing or embarking on long sailing adventures .

Finally, let’s demystify the process of adjusting mast rake on your sailboat. Each vessel may have specific recommendations from the manufacturer, so consulting your owner’s manual is always a wise first step. However, if you’re looking to experiment or fine-tune your sailboat ‘s performance further, trial and error combined with careful observation can provide valuable insights.

Begin by adjusting your shrouds—these are the stainless-steel cables that support the mast laterally—and change their tension accordingly. Typically, tightening one side while loosening the other allows you to induce subtle changes in rake angle. Gradually experiment with different adjustments while meticulously recording each setting’s impact on your boat ‘s characteristics.

Remember that small changes can make significant differences in how your sailboat behaves on the water. So be patient and systematic throughout this process of trial and error until you find the sweet spot where both functionality and aesthetic appeal align harmoniously.

In conclusion, mast rake plays an integral role in shaping the performance and appearance of sailboats. From improving balance and stability to enhancing overall efficiency through manipulating lift forces – finding the right angle is crucial for optimum sailing experience. Balancing functionality with aesthetics may require some fine-tuning while keeping an eye out for manufacturer guidelines but rest assured – with diligent experimentation – you’ll soon find yourself gliding through water like a true seafarer!

How to Adjust Mast Rake: Step-by-Step Instructions for Optimal Performance

When it comes to sailing, optimizing your boat’s performance is crucial. One essential aspect that can greatly impact your vessel’s efficiency and stability is the adjustment of mast rake. This intricate process might seem intimidating at first, but with our handy step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to navigate through it effortlessly. So without further ado, let’s dive into the world of mast rake adjustments for optimal performance!

Step 1: Understanding Mast Rake Before we begin tweaking anything, it’s important to have a solid understanding of what mast rake is and how it affects your boat. Mast rake refers to the angle at which your mast tilts backward or forward from its vertical position when viewed from the side. It plays a significant role in controlling sail shape and balance on different points of sail.

Step 2: Checking your Boat’s Design Each boat model has specific recommendations regarding the ideal mast rake angle provided by its manufacturer or designer. Refer to your boat’s manual or specifications sheet for this information before proceeding further. Following these guidelines will ensure that you don’t deviate too far from what was originally intended for optimal performance .

Step 3: Preparing for Adjustment To adjust mast rake accurately, you’ll need certain tools like a measuring tape, plumb line or halyard weight, and perhaps an assistant to help during this process. Once gathered, make sure your boat is safely moored or anchored, providing a stable platform without any obstructions hindering access to the mast.

Step 4: Measuring Existing Mast Rake Using the measuring tape and assistance if needed, measure the distance between two fixed points on your hull – usually at deck level – and record this measurement as ‘A.’ Next, measure another distance straight up from each point along the centerline of your mast where point A intersects with it until reaching a similar height where both measurements match identically above deck level without stretching or compressing the tape. Record this measurement as ‘B.’

Step 5: Calculating Rake Angle Now that you have measurements A and B, it’s time to determine your existing mast rake angle. To do this, divide the difference between A and B by the distance between them – usually in feet – providing you with a numerical figure expressing your current rake angle.

Step 6: Adjusting the Mast Rake At this stage, it’s important to reiterate that adjusting your mast rake should always be done incrementally and carefully, making small modifications until desired effects become evident. Tacking on drastic changes can lead to unexpected and undesirable outcomes.

To increase mast rake angle: Shift the base of your mast forward slightly by loosening forestay tension while simultaneously tightening backstay tension incrementally. This adjustment will move the top of your mast backward, increasing rake angle.

To decrease mast rake angle: Follow the opposite procedure by shifting the base of your mast backward gently with increased forestay tension combined with loosening backstay tension progressively. This modification reverses the previous effect, decreasing rake angle.

Step 7: Observing Performance Changes After each incremental change made during adjustments, it’s crucial to take note of how these alterations affect your boat’s performance on different points of sail . Monitor aspects such as sail shape , balance, weather helm tendencies, and overall handling to gauge whether improvements are being achieved or if further tweaking is necessary.

In conclusion, mastering the art of adjusting mast rake requires careful attention to detail and an understanding of how these modifications impact overall sailing performance. Following our step-by-step instructions ensures a measured approach without straying too far from your boat ‘s initial design recommendations. So get out on the water armed with these newfound skills and unlock optimal performance for unforgettable sailing experiences!

Mast Rake FAQs: Answering Common Questions about this Essential Sailboat Adjustment

When it comes to sailboat adjustments, one of the most essential and frequently asked questions is about mast rake. Mast rake refers to the angle at which the mast leans towards the stern or bow of a boat . It is a critical adjustment that can greatly impact a sailboat’s performance and stability .

In this blog post, we will provide detailed answers to some common questions about mast rake, shedding light on its importance and how to achieve optimal results. So grab your sailing hat and let’s dive right in!

Q: What is mast rake, and why is it important?

A: Mast rake describes the forward or backward lean of a sailboat’s mast . Properly adjusting the mast rake affects various aspects of sailing performance, including boat balance, helm feel, speed, weather helm reduction, and upwind performance. Maintaining an appropriate mast rake is crucial for achieving optimal boat handling and maximizing your sailboat’s potential.

Q: How do I determine the correct amount of mast rake for my sailboat?

A: The ideal amount of mast rake depends on several factors such as wind conditions, hull shape, rigging design, and personal preference. In general, a small amount of forward mast rake improves downwind performance by reducing weather helm (the tendency for the boat to want to turn into the wind). Conversely, more aftmast rakes enhance upwind performance by increasing power in lighter winds .

Experimenting with different levels of mast rake during different sailing conditions can help you find what suits your vessel best. Consulting experienced sailors or seeking advice from sailmakers can also provide valuable insights based on their expertise.

Q: How can I adjust my sailboat’s mast rake?

A: Adjusting your sailboat’s mast rake typically involves tightening or loosening your forestay tension – the cable or wire that supports the front section of your mast. Increasing the tension increases mast rake and vice versa. Modern sailboats often feature adjustable backstay controls, which can also be used to fine-tune mast rake.

However, keep in mind that too much adjustment can lead to negative effects on boat performance and structural integrity. Always consult your sailboat’s owner’s manual or seek professional advice when making adjustments to ensure you stay within safe parameters.

Q: Are there any general guidelines for common sailboat designs ?

A: The ideal mast rake varies based on different sailboat types. Long-keel traditional boats typically prefer a more upright mast position, while fin keelboats tend to benefit from forward mast rake. Consult your boat manufacturer or do some research specific to your vessel type for more tailored recommendations.

Q: Can I adjust my mast rake while sailing?

A: While it is possible to make minor adjustments to mast rake while sailing, it is generally recommended to set it correctly before leaving the dock or marina. Significant adjustments may require intermediate steps like mooring or anchoring in calmer waters.

Q: How often should I reassess my sailboat’s mast rake?

A: It is always beneficial to periodically reassess your sailboat’s mast rake as conditions change or upgrades are made. Major improvements such as new sails, rigging changes, or weight distribution alterations might necessitate adjusting the mast rake accordingly.

By addressing these frequently asked questions about mast rakes and understanding their importance in optimizing your sailboat’s performance, you’ll be better equipped for smooth sailing experiences. Remember that finding the best settings may require some trial and error, so don’t hesitate to experiment and seek guidance if needed. Safe travels and fair winds!

The Importance of Proper Mast Rake: Enhancing Speed, Stability, and Control

When it comes to sailing, every little adjustment can make a big difference in your performance on the water. One such adjustment that often gets overlooked is the proper mast rake. While it may seem like a small detail, getting your mast rake just right can greatly enhance your speed, stability, and control on the water.

So what exactly is mast rake? Mast rake refers to the angle at which your mast tilts backward from vertical when looking at your boat from the side. It is typically measured by comparing the distance between a reference point on the bow and a reference point on the mast.

Now you might be wondering, why does this matter? Well, let’s break it down step by step.

First and foremost, proper mast rake can significantly improve your speed. When correctly adjusted, it helps optimize sail power distribution and reduces drag. By tilting the mast backward slightly, you can create a more efficient airflow over your sails, allowing them to generate more lift and propel you through the water faster. It’s like having an extra gear to ace those downwind reaches or beat upwind against your competition.

Secondly, having the right amount of mast rake enhances stability. By adjusting the angle of your mast, you can maximize balance between sail forces and help prevent excessive heeling (the leaning of your boat). This is particularly important in high-wind conditions where maintaining control becomes challenging. Properly raked masts enable you to unleash the potential of your sails while keeping that much-needed stability under control.

Lastly – but certainly not least – accurate mast rake provides increased overall control of your boat. Whether tacking or jibing or simply maneuvering through tight spots, having the right balance between foresail(s) and mainsail is essential for optimal handling. A properly adjusted mast rake ensures that both sails work together harmoniously rather than fighting against each other for dominance.

Now that we understand why this seemingly minor adjustment is so crucial, how do we go about getting it right? The answer lies in experimentation. Different boat designs, sailing conditions, and personal preferences can all play a part in determining the ideal mast rake for your vessel.

Start by consulting your boat’s owner’s manual or seeking advice from experienced sailors or marine professionals. They can provide you with a general starting point for mast rake based on your boat’s make and model. From there, it becomes a matter of trial and error. Adjust the rake incrementally and observe how it affects your performance on the water. If you feel improvements in speed, stability, or control, then you are heading in the right direction. Keep tinkering until you find that sweet spot where everything clicks.

So next time you hit the water, don’t underestimate the power of proper mast rake. It may just be the secret weapon that takes your sailing to the next level. By enhancing your speed, stability, and control, this seemingly small adjustment can help you leave your competition in your wake as you effortlessly navigate through any sailing condition mother nature throws at you.

Achieving the Perfect Mast Rake: Expert Tips and Tricks for Sailors

Achieving the Perfect Mast Rake: Unlocking the Secrets to Optimal Sailing Performance

Ahoy, fellow seafarers! Today, we are diving headfirst into a topic that has long fascinated sailors of all levels – mast rake. Many sailors understand its significance in enhancing performance and achieving optimal sail trim, but few truly comprehend the science and art behind this delicate balance. Fear not, for in this comprehensive blog post, we will demystify mast rake and provide expert tips and tricks to help you achieve perfection on the high seas.

First things first, let’s establish what mast rake is all about. Mast rake refers to the angle at which your mast leans backward or forward from vertical when viewed from the side of your sailing vessel . It might seem like a small detail, but it can make a world of difference in how your boat handles varying wind conditions.

Now, why is finding that sweet spot of mast rake so crucial? Well, it directly affects two vital aspects: sail shape and balance. Achieving an ideal sail shape allows you to harness every breath of wind without excessive heeling or unwanted drag. Furthermore, balancing the forces acting on your boat empowers you with superior control and stability – essential qualities for any captain worth their salt.

Without further ado, let’s delve into our expert tips and tricks:

1. Experimentation is Key: Finding that ideal mast rake requires some trial-and-error experimentation; therefore, be prepared for multiple adjustments during your voyage towards perfection. Take detailed notes on each adjustment’s impact on your boat’s performance – this valuable information will guide you toward achieving greatness.

2. Start Neutral: Always begin with a neutral mast position before making any adjustments. This ensures that your starting point is balanced and facilitates better understanding of subsequent changes’ effects.

3. Sail condition dictates: Different sails perform optimally under specific conditions; hence it’s important to consider both conditions and sail plan when determining mast rake. Light winds may call for more aft rake to achieve a fuller, more powerful sail shape, while stronger winds might require less rake to reduce excessive heeling.

4. Listen to the Telltales: The invaluable telltales fluttering along your sails offer valuable insights into your boat ‘s trim. Adjusting mast rake affects how these telltales stream – straighter indicates good balance, whilst curving excessively signifies poor sail trim and uneven pressure. Tweak your mast rake until those telltales dance in unison, providing a symphony of harmonized airflow.

5. Consistency Across Conditions: Maintaining consistency in mast rake across varying wind conditions is paramount for optimum performance. This ensures that your rig maintains balance and stability regardless of the elements at play.

6. Consult with fellow sailors: Join sailing forums or consult with experienced sailors who can provide firsthand advice on mast rake adjustments specific to your boat model and class. Gathering collective wisdom from seasoned seafarers is an excellent way to accelerate your learning curve and achieve results more efficiently.

7. Invest in Mast Rake Tools: Consider investing in tools specifically designed for assessing mast rake, such as adjustable stays or a Loos gauge – both handy gadgets that simplify the process of measurement and adjustment.

By now, you should have a clearer understanding of how crucial achieving the perfect mast rake is in enhancing sailing performance. However, keep in mind that no single formula applies universally – every boat and sailor are unique entities with specific characteristics demanding individualized attention.

Remember, achieving perfection takes time; so be patient and persistent on this voyage towards mastering mast rake. Embrace experimentation, analyze feedback from telltales diligently, seek advice from experienced sailors when needed – marvel at how these seemingly small adjustments have the potential to transform your sailing experience into an art form only few can truly appreciate.

Bon voyage!

Mastering Mast Rake: Unlocking the Secrets to a Winning Sailboat Setup

If you’re a sailing enthusiast and have ever wondered what it takes to achieve a winning sailboat setup, then mastering mast rake is a secret weapon you don’t want to miss out on. Mast rake refers to the angle at which your boat’s mast is tilted backwards from vertical when viewed from the side. It may seem like a small detail, but getting it just right can make a world of difference in terms of performance and speed on the water .

So why is mast rake so important? Well, it all comes down to balance and sail power . When your mast is raked back, it allows for proper weight distribution between the bow (front) and stern (back) of your boat . This helps maintain stability while sailing and prevents excessive pitching or rolling that can slow you down. Additionally, correct mast rake ensures that your sails generate optimal power by maintaining the proper shape in relation to wind flow.

Now, you might be wondering how to determine the ideal mast rake for your specific sailboat. The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer as it depends on various factors such as boat design, rigging setup, and sailing conditions. However, there are some general guidelines to follow.

Firstly, consider your boat’s design characteristics. Different boats have different requirements when it comes to mast rake. For example, cruiser-style boats usually benefit from having more upright masts for improved comfort and stability during long-distance journeys. On the other hand, racing boats might require more aggressive backstay tension and increased mast rake to maximize performance.

Next up is experimentation! Don’t be afraid to play around with different mast rake angles during practice sessions or races. Start with a conservative angle—approximately 1-2 degrees aft—and assess how your boat responds in terms of speed and handling under various wind conditions. From there, make small adjustments until you find the sweet spot that offers maximum efficiency without compromising control or safety.

It’s worth mentioning that mast rake isn’t the only factor to consider—other variables such as wind strength, sail trim, and hull shape all play a role in achieving the optimal setup. However, by mastering mast rake, you’ll have a solid foundation to build upon and fine-tune your overall sailing performance .

Now, let’s add a touch of wit and cleverness to this topic. Think of adjusting mast rake as the secret sauce in your recipe for sailing success. It’s like finding the perfect balance between a spicy kick and just the right amount of sweetness in your favorite dish. Too much or too little can throw off the whole flavor profile (or in this case, boat performance), so it’s all about finding that harmonious blend.

Just like how an accomplished chef knows exactly when to adjust seasonings based on taste tests, a seasoned sailor becomes attuned to their boat’s needs through continuous observation and experimentation. They know when it’s time to make adjustments by reading cues from wind patterns, analyzing their boat’s behavior on different points of sail, and even listening carefully for feedback from their sails fluttering in the breeze.

So next time you’re out on the water, channel your inner sailing chef—boldly experimenting with just the right dash of mast rake to unlock that winning sailboat setup. Remember, it may take some trial and error before you achieve perfection, but once you do, you’ll be gliding through waves with grace and leaving your competition wondering how you managed to gain that extra edge. So go forth, embrace mast rake mastery, and set sail towards victory!

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Mast Rake and Rig Tuning

How does mast rake work?  This is a subject to spend some time on and make your rig set up the best.  This is an article I found in the December Issue of Sail Magazine , and it’s a good one.  This article was written by Andy Horton.

Think of mast rake as the distance between the tip of a mast and a vertical axis. You can get an idea of your mast s rake by looking at your boat from a distance. Imagine what a vertical mast, perpendicular to the deck, would look like. Use a reference in the fore-ground or background a tree, flagpole, building, any¬thing vertical for accuracy. Line up your vertical refer¬ence with the mast at deck level. Now, look at how far the mast rip is from the vertical line. The distance between the two tells you how much your mast is raked.  Mast rake varies from boat to boat. There is no magic number for how much to rake a mast, but getting it right will help balance your boat The basic rules are: Forward rake adds lee helm; aft rake adds weather helm.

I place boats in two general categories boats with static rake (or straight headstays) in all conditions, and boats with dynamic rake, which sail with a sagging headstay in low windspeeds. Dinghies that sail with tight headstay/rig tension, including the 420, Vanguard 15, 470, 505, and 49er, are examples of static rake. Most keelboats J/22, J/24, Soling, Mumm 30, ID 35, and Farr 40, for example are tuned to have head-stay sag in low windspeeds. Finding the optimal rake for your boat involves a little trial and error. Base your mast tuning around light-air settings. In low windspeeds you want the mast to be as vertical as possible (minimal rake) and the boat nearly level as you sail upwind. You also want just enough weather helm to steer comfortably. In this configuration the upwind sailplan generates maximum power, and downwind the spinnaker is set as far from the main as possible. Then, as windspeed increases, add rake (drop the mast farther aft) to balance the sailplan. This will also increase weather helm.  Static rake. As the wind-speed increases, the rake will stay the same because the headstay is always straight. In windier conditions the boat might feel overpowered and sometimes will be affected by lee helm. To properly tune the rig, add rake by lengthening the headstay. The shrouds may have to be tightened to maintain rig tension. Dynamic rake. Conversely, the mast rake on a boat with a sagging headstay actually increases with building wind-speed. The mast tip is pulled aft, until the forestay is tight, as you pull on the mainsheet, permanent backstay, and running backstay. This often adds too much rake more headstay sag in light air leads to more rake when it is breezy so in this case shorten the head-stay. This may sound counterintuitive, but shortening the headstay will help you get the correct amount of helm. How much rake is too much? Because you add helm with rake, you may have too much rake if it is hard to bear away for waves or if you are more comfortable steering when the main is under-trimmed. If the boat is easier to steer when it is heeled more than a few degrees, if you find yourself over trimming the mainsheet to develop helm, or if the boat wants to bear away when a puff hits, your mast may not have enough rake. For more information about Mast Rake and how it effects your sailing, go to John Ellsworth’s article.

Andy Horton, pro-sailor and US Sailing Team Star sailor who enjoys snowboarding & is an all around outdoor enthusiast. Andy began sailing on Lake Champlain in Vermont where he grew up. He went to prep school at Tabor Academy in Marion MA. After Tabor he attended Hobart college where he studied biology and economics. In 1998 he graduated from Hobart as a 3 time All American. After college he has continued to competitively race sail boats. He has competed in everything from the Americas Cup to Bermuda Races and one design regattas. Check out this video of Andy at the helm of a Star Class Boat.

Sailor Profile – Andy Horton from Amory Ross on Vimeo .

For more on the Bonneville School of Sailing and their plans for restoring several Star Class Boats, check it out here .  Also see our own video about the Star Class Restoration here .

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You could say Tyler caught the bug for sailing at young age and it's never really left him. If there is an opportunity to hit the water, he's there without hesitation. So it was only natural to form Get Wet Sailing, so he could talk about sailing all day every day. Drop him a line if you have any questions about a Hobie-he's our resident expert.

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