WHAT IS THIS ? Lift keel rodding pipe

[ginz]

I have a 2009 Sun Odyssea 30 i Lifting Keel.

I have often wondered what the sea cock and pipe shown in the photograph are for.

Do you know, if so kindly advise. . . .



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[rene460]

Hi ginz,

The items shown are used when your centreboard refuses to go down.  There should also be a T made with a quite long stem.

When the centreboard decides not to go down, unscrew the plug in the top of the valve, screw in the bush on the end of the tube (which will leave the other end above water line), open the valve fully.  The water level will appear in the tube.  Use the T to push down the centre board through the valve.  Note that the end of the stem on the T is notched so it does not slip off the side of the board.  The T just fits past the end of the table.

I prefer to do the procedure at a jetty or in the pen rather than out on the water as there are usually only two of us on board, but there is no reason it could not be done out on the water if it is not too rough.  It does not happen often, but good to have the system available.  It is very easy to use.  

I generally blow the water down below the valve as I shut it, then dry the exposed ball with a tissue and add a few drops of cooking oil to stop any corrosion.  I also use an anti seize compound on the threads of the plug before I replace it.

Enjoy your sailing on a great boat.

rene460

[ginz]

Hi Rene,

many thanks. . . I should have guessed I suppose !

I have had the boat four years and never had the board stick up.

[rene460]

Hi ginz,

Our boats must have been purchased around the same time.  It has not happened often, twice from memory and at least one other thread on this board.  I may have pulled the board up very tight (not very likely) or perhaps it was due for a clean.   But very useful to have the facility.  At least it is not a ballasted board and is not necessary for stability, but of course then it would always go down!  Great boat for our shallow waters.
rene460