tension in stays / downhaul

Brand new owner, 2011 Classic purchased yesterday. I have a million questions but only two that seem at all urgent.

1. I came from a mono hull with the three stays under a good bit of tension at all times. The wave stays are quite loose. Is this normal?

2. Based on the style/design of the downhaul, it looks like it is intended to be drawn down quit tight. Are there guidelines?

Thanks a ton

Chip

Chip,

The rig should be snug, but not "tight". Too much tension and you deform the hulls. You should just take the slack out, plus a little tension. I step forward of the bows and pull on the halyard to pull the mast forward... adjust the forestay down a notch or two.

The sail downhaul should be pulled to remove horizontal wrinkles in the luff. More wind, more downhaul. Too much and you can distort the sail shape.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)