Tim, On my 1976 M17 the pivot hole in the centerboard has a nylon bushing. I replaced this bushing when I reconditioned the board a couple years ago, but I started to notice more banging around down there late last summer. I'm thinking the bushing may be shot again. Larry On Fri, 23 Feb 2007 07:00:36 -0800 Tim Diebert <tim@timtone.com> writes:

While I am thinking on it, thanks to Bill and Randy for going to the

trouble of posting story and images of their board and bunk projects. I appreciate that. I am making plans for some repairs, mods and maintenance for our 17. One issue that get my 'interest' while sailing is the ..... flopidyness...of the CB. When not under pressure (and when down of course) the board can kind of bump and bang up against the sides of the case/keel. I read lots of stories of jammed or tight boards....but it seems I have quite the opposite situation. <insert Viagra joke here>

I am wondering if this is considered usual. Seems to me that it is great that everything is free and working , but I am wondering if perhaps the pivot bolt may be worn....or the hole in the plate...? The pendant could use replacement....so this could be used as additional excuse to go to the bother. I had a look at the board last year . While diving. It looks like it has no coating and is just rough metal. The boat has been used in salt but I don't think has ever been left at anchor much. I use it in fresh water.

Also, I wonder if it is usual for both the pivot bolt and stop bolt to be proud of the keel surface. Should they be recessed and filled/faired? Is there enough thickness or meat at that point to do this?

Cheers, Tim Diebert M17 #369 PUFF Kelowna BC ....finally above freezing and on the downhill side.

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