Where to locate inner forestay and runners?

[jerfox_ratw]

Hello all. . .

I have Brion's book on order but in the mean time and in case it doesn't answer all my questions, here is my question:

I have a '74 Irwin 37CC. It is a single spreader, sloop rig with single fore and backstay, single upper shrouds, and fore and aft lower shrouds. I do not know who the mast manufacturer is (I believe it was Irwin) but it is very substantial and will not allow for any bending. I have had issues with the mast pumping but for the most part, it is very minimal with it properly tuned.

I would like to add an inner forestay and running backstays to eliminate any hint of pumping and, if for no other reason, additional mast support.

In later versions, Irwin kept the exact same mast but moved the forestay from the stemhead to the end of a 3' bowsprit / anchor roller and offered a cutter rig by running the inner forestay from the stemhead to a point about halfway between the mast head and the spreaders.

Would I be correct in assuming this point between the mast head and spreaders is the best point for an inner forestay and runners on my boat. If that is correct, is it crucial that the inner forestay remain parallel to the main forestay (I will not be flying a sail from the inner) and attach to the deck at whatever point that the mast position dictates? Would it be simpler and more structurally sound to make the inner forestay detachable and when needed, attach it directly to the stemhead?

Thanks for your thoughts. . .

-Jeremy