Rudder and Centerboard Alignment

[FYC7.9]

Anyone have any tips to align the after edge of the rudder to the centerboard so that they are both parallel with each other? I am sure there is a relatively easy way to do this, I just cannot think of it. Thanks!

[dave]

I just use a tape measure. Some on here use other methods that don't involve the daggerboard, but doing so doesn't take into account any slop in the gudgeons/pintles. In light air and at slow speeds the 7.9 rudder wants to float upward/forward, and at speed the drag on the rudder will pull it aft. Both scenarios make any other measurement than trailing edge to trailing edge inaccurate, and you need to make sure that the bolt on the rudder cheek plates is tight enough to allow a bit of aft pull to simulate the drag of the water pulling the blade aft. Stef sells shims for the slop, do that first!

And yes......... as always.......... 1/8" either way DOES make a noticeable difference in feel and performance, and more than that starts getting out of hand at a exponential rate!!!!

Make sure that you're measuring from the same vertical height in both places on the DB and rudder or your measurements don't mean squat.

[FYC7.9]

Thanks Dave! I used a steel tape and got everything aligned. You are right about how much of a difference it makes with the rudder blade aft. We had a slight grounding one night and crushed the back a little. Lets just say it made for a tough night on the helm...