Main gaff rigging for WILBO ketch "Leeway"

[weheritage]

Our ketch Leeway does not have a triadic stay. Recently I have received early pictures of he under sail and the back of the gaff has a line going to the mizzen mast. Where can I find information on this rigging and how it is used.

Picture circa 1950 David Lee at the helm

http://www.weheritage.com/002A.jpg

[George Ray]

It's a vang to control the gaff.

[weheritage]

Thanks

[Todd Bradshaw]

Yep, upper sail twist reduction. The top of the mizzen mast looks well braced, so this gaff vang may be more effective than those which come up from deck height. Looks like the block on the aft end of the vang rides on an adjustable vertical line to regulate tension. Might be worth rigging one to see how well it works.

[Ian McColgin]

The trick with a vang is to not over-flatten. Just reduce the main's twist to harmonize with the jib and mizzen.

G'luck