by seandwyer » Wed Feb 05, 2014 1:44 pm
Washers made from cutting boards and the like sound like a good idea for keeping the blade down, but I've had no luck, personally keeping the rudder up by any other means than a line or bungee.
I'm not necessarily telling you to do this, but of all DS owners I know, the one who seems to know the most and is most successful at racing once told me that a small diameter hole drilled through the "cheek," through the blade, and out the opposing "cheek" is the most effective way to keep the blade where you want it. You insert a small, soft piece of dowel (sized so as to fit snugly) through the hole, thus securing the two pieces of the rudder together, but capable of sacrificing itself in the event the rudder hits an unexpected object.
I guess it depends on your sailing proclivities as to whether this is a good idea. I know for me, even though the hole is there, I don't do this because it means I have to remove the rudder before pulling the boat out of the water. But I'm sure that this method does keep the blade in an exact place with no wondering if the blade is down all the way or not.
Just a thought.
Sean
DS1 - 3203