I have put some postings already about this but a picture speaks a 1000 words! We were taking down the masts this past weekend so I snapped some shots to help show where I believe my problems are.

When I try tuning to the numbers on the website, right now the mast bends forward. The closer I try to get to the numbers, the worst it rakes forward.

As I tighten the aft lowers, it pulls the mast back at the lower spreaders. As you can see in the pictures, when I tune the rig this way the mast hooks towards the bow badly.

I believe with no tension on the lower afts the mast should bend / rake towards the stern of the boat. As the lower are introduced, it helps straighten the bottom of the mast so the backstay is more effective.

When the mast was off the boat, I discovered that the bottom plate has sunk about 3/16". My guess is that this would put the mast leaning towards the stern and as the shrouds are tightened it would the mast forward?? Thoughts or does it really make a difference?

The link for the pics is http://express27.org/photos/?gallery=119 . Also, if anyone looks at the deck, any suggestions / improvements are welcome!