Headstay size

[mikemosabe]

Hello all-
I'm replacing all of the rigging wire and it has been suggested that the headstay should or could be larger than the uppers. Referring to the Rigger's Apprentice and other similar vessels all of the shrouds spec out at a conservative 1/4" wire. Perhaps with a sloop rig it might be more appropriate but the backstay and the headstay angles are not steep by virtue of a boomkin and long bowsprit. She will be refit with a new roller furler as well. Any thoughts that going up to 9/32" would be better for the headstay? The headstay is about 41'.

Many thanks!!

[mikemosabe]

So I'm close to answering my own question after consulting L&Es "Principles of Yacht Design" as to the size of wire; 1/4". This size (with a healthy righting moment thrown in) is right on the edge of the breaking strength with their formula which includes the safety factor. It appears I would likely be just fine with the 1/4 wire. I am still wondering, however, what advantage or detriment there might be using the 9/32 wire on the headstay with roller furling?

[Brion Toss]

Hello,
Both wires use the same pin size, so no harm done there. The 9/32" is a teensy bit heavier, somewhat more expensive, probably not an issue. Windage won't be a factor inside the furler. So you might consider going up, just to reduce elasticity, and thus luff sag.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss