Geek centerboard question.

N1EYO

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Nov 30, 2011
12
Morgan M22 Cocoa, FL
Has anybody thought about or have successfully used a linear actuator motor and a trim tab gauge to control the raising and lowering of their centerboard? This idea has been in my mind but before I throw money at it experimentally, I need to know the take from others on the forum.
 

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kito

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Sep 13, 2012
2,011
1979 Hunter Cherubini 30 Clemmons
A lot of work and money for really no reason. It's easy to just crank it up and down. I am not sure what your design is but if you get the actuator's piston rod bent by hitting something.....your screwed. With the cable, the board will pivot if you hit something....not with an actuator. If you somehow rigged it inside to raise and lower it then it seems like it would take up a lot of room. You would be better off rigging a 12v power winch if you don't like hand cranking.
 
Oct 6, 2008
857
Hunter, Island Packet, Catalina, San Juan 26,38,22,23 Kettle Falls, Washington
With just one line to pull or release I would think my line takes less time than pushing a button and waiting. I also do not need the weight of the battery and other parts. Maybe the idea would be better suited for larger boats than trailer sailors.
Ray
 
Jun 8, 2004
10,453
-na -NA Anywhere USA
Kudos to Kito and Ray Bowles. Hope you follow their advice. I am an avid sailor and also retired sailboat dealer known for expeience and knowledge in trailerable sailboats but these two guys said it all. Thank you gents for that good advice
 
Sep 10, 2012
222
Hunter 450 Gulfport, Florida
Had a friend that modified an S2 with an electric system mounted above and I believe kevlar cordage. It worked well, but his primary motivation was to be able to move the board undetected, commonly called cheating.