David Flynn
April 18, 2017
Quantum Expert Answer
Having your tip fall off in 10+ knots of breeze is not desirable on any rig, especially not with an inline two spreader configuration. One thing that may be causing this is too much diagonal tension. This will pull the mid-sections of the mast to weather and make it seem like the top is falling off.
I would start by easing D 1, 2s, and 3s to the point where you see visible sag to leeward at their attachment points. Then make sure the top is staying in the center. You will need more tension than you might imagine. If you feel the uppers on the leeward side when you're sailing up wind, they should still be rock tight. The top of rigging makes a difference. Rod is much easier to get tuned and tensioned than standard wire. With the top in the center tune from the top down. Add just enough diagonal tension at each station to bring the mast in column. I hope that helps and feel free to let us know if you have any further questions!