Dan, Mike, et 'al,
We go through a lot of discussions on this
board about problems with centerboards, attachment points, cables, fouled
centerboard trunks, etc.
Many of us may have formed opinions about the
use of centerboards based upon previous experiences--often from experiences
with boats featuring keels that served as both keel and centerboard. The SJ23
is obviously different. We never have an option to operate without a keel
thanks to the excellent design of our SJ23s. But the centerboard is truly an
option to respect and understand.
Our SJ23 centerboard is simply a metal fin,
that, while somewhat awkward to handle while repairing the cable and
simultaneously standing on your head underwater, is simply a flat fin surface
that increases the counterbalance stability under sail --particularly
enhancing the boat's reaction to heeling. This fin which extends our
draft from 1'-11" (centerboard up) to 4'-9" (centerboard fully down) produces
very little drag in straight forward motion, yet increases drag when coming
about too quickly, or during tight maneuvering in harborside/marina/docking
scenarios. (The weight--approximately 750 lbs. in the fixed portion
of the keel-- provides for primary stability.)
Unless you are cornering more than
20-degrees while traveling above 4 knots in the harbor, the centerboard draft
is of negligible affect or value. (A more effective technique for creating
drag is to "fan" the rudder quickly. Although you'll want to announce your
technique to others on board ahead of time.)
Leaving the centerboard down all the
time--especially at mooring in saltwater conditions and during
high-temp(underwater growth) seasons in freshwater--especially in shallower
harbor depths-- invites fouling your centerboard with the same underwater
growth that attacks your hull. This also risks fouling the attachment point of
your adjustment cable and the clogging of the centerboard trunk on the bottom
of the keel. It's the beginning of many more complex problems.
Centerboards are absolutely essential under
sail--never risk sailing without one you can control or adjust as desired. Any
other time, put 'em back in "the box."
D. Wendal
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Friday, August 17, 2001 9:36
AM
Subject: Re: Sj23 Tech Tips
I agree with Mike -
leave the centerboard down. The only time the board
should be up
is when you're beaching; sailboats are not designed to be
operated
without a keel (or centerboard, in this case).
Dan.
