H170 Centerboard Flaps - Do I Need Them?

[txjim]

I noticed that my '99 170 does not have centerboard flaps and am wondering if anyone can tell me their function and advantages. Are they simply to reduce splash through the centerboard slot or is their some other purpose? I've seen references to them in older threads but never noticed their absence until recently.

Any information is welcomed!

 

[Bill1565]

Some racers believe that flaps on the slot increase boat speed. Some cheat and do not report the modification.

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

Generally, they were stick on and helped to keep trash from getting into the welll housing from trailering. Did it help to keep water out underway? That is debatable but to increase speed, bunk. If you want to replace that is your decision but I did see some screwed them into place and if that occoured and you do not want those flaps, make sure the holes are screwed with caulking.

crazy dave

 

[txjim]

Thanks for the response, CD! I see in another thread that you are a recent retiree but I could have guessed by the number of your recent responses in the daysailor forum!


I did order a set of flaps after starting this thread (and I'm VERY happy to be able to order Hunter factory parts from this site) and received them just yesterday. I've never found anything I'd consider a real assembly drawing for the 170 (owners manual drawings are good but partial) and I ordered the "Flap Plate" as well based on the description. I'm guessing it secures the leading edge of these flaps to prevent peeling. Can you confirm or provide any other clue? Thanks!

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

Thanks for the response, CD! I see in another thread that you are a recent retiree but I could have guessed by the number of your recent responses in the daysailor forum!


I did order a set of flaps after starting this thread (and I'm VERY happy to be able to order Hunter factory parts from this site) and received them just yesterday. I've never found anything I'd consider a real assembly drawing for the 170 (owners manual drawings are good but partial) and I ordered the "Flap Plate" as well based on the description. I'm guessing it secures the leading edge of these flaps to prevent peeling. Can you confirm or provide any other clue? Thanks!

Send me a photo of the plate as I cannot recall everything. 61 years old and I am an old fart to some. Ha. davecondon@mindspring.com

crazy dave

 

[bgcampbell]

You guessed right - the plate goes at the forward edge of the flaps just ahead of the centerboard slot. The flaps are "sandwiched" between the plate and the hull. A stainless screw fastens the plate on each side (liberally use sealant).

I've had the centerboard flaps come loose on two different hulls. I replaced the original adhesive tape with a better tape; on my current boat a flap came loose a second time so I removed and do without. There's a bit more noise as I can hear splashing in the centerboard slot when sailing hard. I think I prefered having the flaps but too lazy to redo!