I know this thread is a little old, but I'm just about to finish my Ace sloop and would appreciate a little help. Is there any trick to help get the rigging tight? I'm sort of fighting myself trying to get the fore, aft, and shroud stays secure. Seems like as soon as I get one tight, the other loosens up.
Also, does your main boom extend past the aft stay line? Is the boom not supposed to swiing freely from side to side? I'm guessing on a free sailer it doesn't really matter as it's generally not going to turn. I triple checked my measurements and made sure the boom was cut to the specified length on the plans, and the mast step plate is in the correct location. Did I screw the pooch on something or is that how it should be?