The rudderstock is solid stainless steel and should require no maintenance. The rudder bearings are a PTFE
based plastic and do not require any maintenance. The tiller head is a solid aluminium “clamp”. The
rudderstock will only drop clear of the boat if the clamp bolt is fully removed
Removal of the rudder assembly is recommended once a year to check the condition of the shaft and
bearings. This will also help reduce the corrosion between the tiller head and shaft. Best done when the yacht
is laid up for antifouling.
The Keel is a lead bulb cast around a stainless frame. The “stock” or shaft is a massive stainless box
section “plugged” into the hull and held with the 2 keel bolts visible on the deck. Thus the GRP keel
moulding is simply a fairing, bonded to the box section and around the bulb.
Important:
the keel moulding or “fairing” is hollow above the bulb and fore and aft
of the box section shaft. Thus damage or hard use may cause the keel fairing to
leak. It is designed to do so, and will drain out again when the boat is ashore.
Damage to the keel fairing is thus non-structural and maybe rectified easily.
If unsure contact RS Racing for more details.
3.3 Spar Care.
The boom and spinnaker pole (s) are aluminium structures. The mast is a carbon composite structure. Wash
with fresh water as often as possible, both inside and out, especially around the mast foot area where there
are dissimilar materials in contact with each other. Check all the riveted fittings and the masthead sheave on a
regular basis for any signs of corrosion or wear.
3.4 Sail Care.
The main and jib should be rolled and stored dry, out of direct sunlight. Dry the spinnaker, fold it and
store it in its bag.
When using a new sail for the first time try to avoid extreme conditions because high loads on new sailcloth
can diminish the racing life of the sail.
If your sail is stained in any way try to remove it using normal detergent and warm water. DO NOT attempt
to launder the sail yourself.
Repairs should be temporarily made using self-adhesive Dacron, Mylar or spinnaker repair tape (depending
