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Auto-Release Rudder Cleat

Just concluding this old thread;

Since Alistair brought up the suggestion in June 2016 the possibility to change the rudder cleat to an auto-release cleat (e.g. Clamcleat 257 ) was included in the RS Aero Class Rules. [ C.6.1.3. (j) ]

The topic has not come up again here since, but if there are RS Aero sailors sailing in shallow murky waters where they are unsure of the depth then this is an option available.

Alternatively, if you think you are momentarily at risk of grounding the rudder, you can simply lean back to uncleat it and the friction in the rudder stock should be enough to temporarily keep it down, unless you are travelling at speed.

04/10/2019 11:55:00
Posts: 0

Hi Peter,

Thanks for the welcome and response.

My mistake; I meant 'auto-release' (Clamcleat 257) rather than quick-release. The existing one is plenty q/r enough if you know you are going to need to release it!

20/06/2016 11:55:03
Alistair Glen
Posts: 14

Hi Alistair,

Welcome to the class!

Is not the current cleat as quick release as you may need? (if you leave the tail out of the secondary rear 'tidy up' cleat.)

I similarly sail at a river/estuary type location and if I know I am cutting a corner or avoiding tide through shallow water I will lean back and uncleat it in case it touches.

If you tighten the rudder stock bolt an extra little bit the rudder will stay down quite well uncleated provided you are not going very fast.

20/06/2016 11:41:17
Posts: 0

I've searched the forum and read the class rules and can't find a conclusive answer. Can I replace the standard rudder downhaul cleat with a q/r version? I sail on a very tidal estuary (River Exe) with lots of sandbanks and having my rudder firmly cleated in the 'down' position makes me somewhat nervous, as you can imagine! I appreciate that I could just fit one and hope but I'm sure I'm not the only Aero-ist in the same position.

Alistair

16/06/2016 16:00:55
Alistair Glen
Posts: 14

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Auto-Release Rudder Cleat

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