I'm interested to know if anyone has an opinion on moving the shroud anchor points from the Tramp. side rails, as they are on my 14', down to the hulls, as they are on a 16'. I wonder if there is any advantage or dis-advantage to this. In my mind it seems like it would be a stiffer setup.
The hulls were not designed for the load, so may require some reinforcement.
You have given a good reason why it's probably not a good idea, but I'm curious, does the 16' have internal reinforcements to support the shroud anchor points? If so, can you describe them.
Yes. More glass structure over all and some internal
patches
at the anchor point that disperse the loads in a radius down the sidewall.
Also are you useing a trapeze or not?
Back before the trap was legal on the cat rigged 14 the best way (fastest) to hike up wind was with your back leg on the tramp (foot under the hiking strap) with your inner thigh against the back of the stay and your fwd knee on the hull between the deck and the tramp beams. This got your weight right where it needed to be. If you're still sailing without a trapeze moving the stay would mean hiking in the
wrong
place.
Matt's reason is better though. Don't do it, you'll wreck you boat.
Great feedback guys,thanks. I have trap wires, also a jib, but it was interesting/cool to hear you describe the old technique. I'm thoroughly convinced that it's best to keep it stock, but I'm glad I asked.
I added anchor bolts to my 14 by drilling a hole in the hull lip and then using a 16/17 anchor bar for support. It adds to the strength of the side bar, but does not replace it. I used the bow tang from a 16 for the upper bracket. I have a hand swaging tool, so I swaged the wire while it was on the boat.