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Sunfish Sailboat Parts
July 9, 2024 · 10 min · 344 views · Virginia
What this video covers
Identifying and sourcing replacement parts for vintage Sunfish and Sailfish sailboats requires distinguishing between specific hardware generations, particularly for rudder systems. Early wooden Sunfish and Sailfish models utilize a three-inch vertical latch plate, while later fiberglass Sunfish require a seven-inch version.1:21 Rudder assemblies evolved from the original "elephant ear" style to spoon-tip blades and eventually to spring-loaded aluminum rudder cheeks.1:09 When sourcing components on secondary markets, verify the specific hardware configuration, as parts like horizontal hinge plates differ between wooden decks, which feature screw ears, and fiberglass decks, which do not.4:36 Proper maintenance of aluminum rudder cheeks involves using plastic washers or bushings to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth pivoting.6:40 Other common replacement items include bow handles, tiller extensions, and dagger boards, such as the 39-inch Barrington "Magic Finger" board, which offers improved performance over original 31-inch boards on older hulls.9:12
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