[Rhodes22-list] Centerboard control line size/leak

[BARRY RUEHLEN]

Peter,
We have had our cap off a few times during the remake of our Rhodes. I do not recommend the use of any type of sealant. You should have a neoprene gasket in place between the cap and trunk. Make sure it doesn't have any tears or is cracking. I think ours was around 3/16" thick. You might rub it down with silicone grease to help keep it supple. Any adhesive will make it an absolute bear to remove again. Our cap was bolted together with something like 50 bolts. I have heard that some were screwed. If that is the case, take particular notice when removing the screws that they all feel tight and have not striped. If possible, I would personally drill out for Stainless bolts. They are a pain, but you know they are tight. Good luck. Leaks are maddening, and the trunk is not fun to remove.
Best,
Barry
SV/ Perserverance '87
________________________________
From: Rhodes22-list <rhodes22-list-bounces at rhodes22.org> on behalf of peter beckerman via Rhodes22-list <rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org>
Sent: Saturday, May 18, 2024 11:30 PM
To: rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org <rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org>
Subject: [Rhodes22-list] Centerboard control line size/leak

    I got my boat in the water today and am very happy to report that the 3/16" line I'm using is working fine and my centerboard now deploys properly.  I do not find the line hard to manage though I suspect that 1/4" might be better.   I am extremely unhappy to report the steady drip I'm getting from the centerboard cap.  I tried to torque the screws down, but that didn't solve (or help) the problem.  Therefore I took the boat out of the water and expect to remove the centerboard cap and do a better job cleaning the mating surfaces before reassembling.  Question for anyone who has removed the centerboard cap:  did you use any sort of caulking or sealant when reassembling the cap?Were the screws sufficient to create a tight seal?
Thanks,     Peter