TOPAZ OMEGA
MAINTENNACE
The Topaz OMEGA is designed to require very little maintenance, but there are some simple ways
to keep your boat in the best condition.
Rudder
Never launch your boat without checking that the retaining clip has clicked into place beneath
the upper transom fitting, as this will prevent the rudder from falling off.
Sails
After you have finished sailing, roll the mainsail loosely, this will extend its life better than folding.
Never let the sails flap unduly, this can be done by furling the jib as soon as possible after hoisting.
Although the battens protect the mainsail to a certain extent, do not leave the mainsail hoisted
for extended periods of time.
Raise and drop the gennaker as smoothly as possible, as this will extend the life of the sail.
Avoid trawling the gennaker through the water, this can damage the sail and get the gennaker
stuck around the bow of the boat.
Remove the gennaker from the chute after sailing; if the sail is left it can attract mice that damage the sail.
Always dry the sail before folding and packing it away.
Always rinse the sails and the boat after sailing in salt water.
ALWAYS RELEASE JIB TENSION WHEN NOT SAILING
Foils
Any nicks or deep scratches in the rudder can be repaired using gelcoat filler, as the smallest damage
will affect the performance of the boat. Make sure that the rudder blade remains tight between the stock
when down. Any movement between the blade and the stock, or the stock and the hull may cause
steering problems.
Hull and fittings
Small dents can be repaired by gently warming the hull with a hot air blower (take care not to melt the hull).
For any more substantial repairs refer to Topper Sailboats.
Check the attachment of all fittings regularly. This is particularly important for the fittings that
are screwed onto fixings that are set in the hull. Keep all blocks, cleats and ropes clean
and rinse them after salt water exposure.
Always remove the bung to empty any water after sailing, and when not sailing leave the bung out
to prevent the buildup of pressure within the hull as the temperature fluctuates.
Ropes
Always replace any ropes that are showing any signs of wear immediately.
