Upper Shroud Extenders?

[Brion Toss]

Hi Bob,
If the lengths are right, the upper terminals of the extenders will be just at the height of the mast's pivot point. So, with the addition of fore-and-aft bridles, made up tight, the upper shroud, without needing tending, won't go slack as the mast is lowered. Thus it can provide lateral support for the mast. The only other way to accomplish this is to have the mast's pivot point at the same height as the chainplate pins.
Fair leads,
Brion

[Bob Pingel]

I get the concept, but don't see it...

The upper ends of the extenders are a foot or so above deck -- at the level of the step. When lowering the mast what do they attach to?

You mention bridles -- are the bridles on the mast or on the ends of the uppers (at the top end of the extender).

Bob

P.S. Boy, a drawing would be great here...