Running Backstays

[Tim Bowie]

I have a Valiant 40 and plan on sailing offshore. I have a couple of questions about the setup of running back stays. The running backs are currently attached to a chain plate just aft of the side stays.

When should the running backstays be moved from the chain plate just aft of the stays to the attachment point at the rear of the sailboat? How much tension should be placed on the running backstays when they are attached to the chain plates? Currently there is very little.

Any idea on what the force in pounds would be placed on the attachment point at the rear of the sailboat by the running backs? I need to rig up a block and pulley system between the running backs and the attachment point, I don't want to over or under design the setup. Can I get by with a 1/2' single line from the backstay through a block to a winch?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts,
Tim