Running Backstays

The Highfield Lever: The most traditional running-backstay setup uses a highfield lever, an over-center mechanism that, with the flip of the long handle, exerts considerable tension on the stay. But these levers don’t have much throw, and when released, they don’t create enough sag to run the stay well forward for stowage. A hook instead of a thimble on the stay end allows the wire to be released and secured far enough forward so the boom can be eased to its maximum downwind position. These levers, which are normally quite robust, are also quite expensive.