Sailing Nova Vitavideo
MD2030 Damper plate repair
August 20, 2026 · 11 min · 219 views · United Kingdom
What this video covers
Replacing the rubber damper inserts on an MD2030 engine's damper plate, Alison removes the circlip-style retaining ring, extracts two small locating pins, lifts off the brake-disc-like backing plate, and pops out the old rubbers — both flat and shaped varieties.0:48 The original rubbers had ridden up on edge instead of seating flat, causing progressive damage.0:30 A full replacement damper plate costs £1,200–£1,500; sourcing only the rubber inserts from EU Rubber cost roughly £80 delivered.2:04 Part numbers stamped on the damper plate identify the correct inserts on EU Rubber's website.2:22 Reinstalling the outer four rubbers requires soaking them in hot water for ten minutes, coating them with washing-up liquid, inserting each one sideways with needle-nose pliers, then twisting and working it flat into its slot.5:10 The final rubber proved too tight until a clamp pressed the outer plate aside, widening the gap by a few millimetres.7:31 The circlip is fitted last using circlip pliers — Alison completes that step aboard Nova Vita after lacking the tool at her shore workshop.9:47 Heating the rubbers and lubricating with washing-up liquid is the critical technique for seating the outer inserts without damage.5:50
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