Dart 15 Forums

David Oram wrote:

Hi, I have just bought my first 15 #1324 which looks in very good condition, however I have noticed that the rudders have water in them. There is a drain hole in the edge near the tiller, but it is almost impossible to shake the water out (tends to air lock). Am I right in thinking that the rudders should be dry and that the hole is non original. Has anyone had a similar experience and found a solution? Look forward to becoming active with the association as we get to know the boat better.
David

cat bitz replied:

The hole is meant to be there as the rudders are hollow. The way to remove the water is to blow into the hole so that the air pressure inside the blade increase and forces the water out. When sailing the best thing to do is to put a piece of tape over the hole so that they dont fill up.

I hope this helps


Andy Morse
cat bitz

Charles replied:

Bultack is a good way of stopping the water getting in, don't fill them in permanently, or on hot dys they may blow apart!

I stand them in up to drain & find that periodically rocking them back & forth helps to get the water out... silly design, but something we have to put up with for the benefit of one design.

Duncan Ford replied:

I always understood that the rudders were designed to fill with water when sailing and then drain on land. Not sure I would block up the vent hole.

Duncan Ford 1973

Bob replied:

It is quite common for people to use blue tack to block the hole.
Sailing on a lake one up I have not found it necessary, myself. The rudders only fill up in my experience if you are sitting too far back. If you sail the boat with the correct fore/aft trim (water line at the bow at water level or below) hardly any water goes in the rudders.

David Oram replied:

Andy

Many Thanks

David