srm wrote:
The forestay should be able to support the load either way. If your rigging is original from 1974, then it is LOOOONG overdue for replacement.
You will have a much easier time if you sail with the jib. The boat will tack more easily and the helm will be balanced. You're better off sailing under full sail and just making sure you pick a day with wind speed 10mph or less. With a 1974 boat, you could even reef the mainsail to cut down sail area, but definitely things will be better with a jib.
sm
I do think most—probably all—of the rigging has been replaced, but not for quite some time. Not replacing them as soon as I bought the boat was, at best, cavalier.
Reefing seems like a great compromise, and balancing the helm with the jib is a concept I hadn't considered, so I'm grateful that you pointed it out. It explains why I was pulling the tiller so hard to weather on that same day.
This incident has brought about a great deal of enlightenment. Thanks for the tips and info!