[amkaplan]

I've got a Baba 40 with a cutter/ketch rig, and would like to get the running backstays on the main mast set up. The runners on the mizzen are fiddle blocks with a cam cleat that clip to padeyes by the cockpit. I figured that I would rig a similar configuration to another pair of padeyes I have, seemingly for the purpose.

In looking back through SparTalk archives I see that most threads consider running the runners back to a windward winch. Is this really necessary? Wouldn't the fiddles/cam cleat idea (similar to a boom vang) be adequate? I spoke to a Harken guy recommended by Bob Perry who suggested using Harken Mid-Range Classic blocks 1559/1564 with a SWL of 1800 lbs as being fine. With that recommendation in the hopper, I'm interested in opinions regarding the "boom vang" version as well as the degree of beefiness of the hardware needed.

Opinions, please?

Many thanks,

Allan