[Rhodes22-list] Centerboard stuck

[Michael D. Weisner]

Hi Peter,

The reason that the centerboard fails to lower can be for many reasons. The line or tackle might be jammed, a sheeve has broken or the board may be stuck in the centerboard trunk due to an obstruction. Simply pulling up and releasing the centerboard line may free the board. I do not recommend allowing the board to drop freely to its bottom position as it can damage the pivot hardware or the trunk.

Since I am based in the Long Island Sound, if my board movement becomes restricted, I always think of marine growth such as mussels or barnacles on the sides of the board or inside of the trunk. Some folks have been successful at releasing the board by sliding a thin piece of plastic alongside the board from underneath to dislodge the obstruction, marine life or stones. Be very careful as the marine growth can be very sharp and may cause infection if you are cut by it.

The best solution, of course, is to retrieve the craft from the water and open the centerboard trunk after removing the cabin sole (floor). There are some 60 bolts holding the cap to the trunk. This can require several hours or a day to complete, including applying bottom paint to the board and the interior of the trunk. Usually, the gasket can be reused,

The most common solution is to sail for the season with the board up and work on the centerboard while on the hard for winter. This will limit your ability to point close to the wind and control side slippage BUT YOU WILL BE SAILING!

Mike
s/v Wind Lass ('91)
Nissequogue River, NY
I’d rather be sailing :~)

-----Original Message-----
From: Rhodes22-list <rhodes22-list-bounces at rhodes22.org> On Behalf Of Peter via Rhodes22-list
Sent: Thursday, May 18, 2023 8:46 AM
To: rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org
Subject: [Rhodes22-list] Centerboard stuck

Hi all,
   So my new-to-me '86 rhodes is in the water  at her slip.  I'm doing a few projects before taking her out for a first sail.
Just to get a feel for the centerboard weight I uncleated the line and....nothing, didn't move a bit.  Before I dive in and try pulling on the board, I thought I'd ask if there's another (warmer) approach to freeing a stuck centerboard. 

Thanks as always, 
       Peter