--- Larry Yake <leyake@juno.com> wrote:
Seems there is always someone having problems with one of the old cast iron centerboards. My boat has the same problems and I'll be working on it soon. It would sure be beneficial to a great many of us if a suitable replacement could be created. I was surprised to learn the newer M17's board is so much lighter. Is the weight difference made up in the keel? Could a lighter board be used on an older model? I realize the board on the newer boats won't fit the older models, but if a lighter weight model could be made to replace the cast iron, without too much loss of performance or stiffness, it sure would be a lot easier to handle. Also, earlier discussions speculated on the possibility of getting a professional to build some boards if there was enough interest. Count me in. Larry Y. M17, #200 Tullamore, Larry, From layman's perspective I surmise that the M17's with the old cast iron boards point higher, and here is my 'logic' for it. It would seem to me that the weight and density of the cast iron board would keep it from 'floating up' in the cbd trunk; as the boat progressed foward through the water. Whereas, the newer, lighter fibreglass boards MAY move aft slightly when beating hard on the wind. I passed this by a friend of mine who's a longtime sailor; and he somewhat agreeed to the premise. Only one way to find out....have a couple of each design get together and sail on the same compass courses; switching crews for half the day, so as not to have the issue become the helmsperson. I'd suggest that be a starting point for the 'old boats' to begin from; as Mr Lyle Hess designed the board from cast iron for a reason, I surmise again. I would think the added weight of the cast bd's, contributes to a 'smoother ride' through chop/rough seas. Just my thoughts, a few years sailing myself on many types of boats out of New England area, 14' ers to 12 meter :) Eugene
__________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Yahoo! Sports - live college hoops coverage http://sports.yahoo.com/