Widgeon center board

[Brian S]

Hi,

Just bought a '73 Widgeon. The center board is stuck. I saw, maybe on this site, that someone had a fix to a stuck line jammed between the board and the case. And I've heard there are three screws to access the center board, however I don't see these three screws, only the large hindge bolt. There is a cover of sorts over the assy, and can't see how to remove it.

Ideas, suggestions?

Thanks
Brian

 

[Sunbird]

3 screws is pre-1971

The 1963-70 Widgeon had a different CB control setup then you have, on those the CB was moved by a lever and there was a triangle plate with 3 screws to hold the assembly together. On your boat the CB is controlled by 2 lines, 1 pulls CB up, 1 pulls CB down. The up line it lead off the top corner of the CB and through a hole in the forward side of the CB trunk (it appears to be the lower? of the 2 lines in the pic on hte rigging sheet). The down line is lead from the lower, forward corner of the Cb and up through a hole in the forward end of the CB trunk. This line leads aft through a bullseye fairlead in the picture.
To remove the CB you unbolt the hinge bolt and the CB can be slid out of the trunk, (I'd roll the boat on her side and extend the CB at least partially first, you may need to use a prybar on hte lower tip to move it if jammed, BE CAREFUL) the bolt actually goes through a plastic bushing which is what the CB pivots on. If your boat is missing this plastic bushing.....that could be what is jamming the CB (loosen pivot bolt before trying to lower the CB, if CB moves easier...you may have found the problem!) The bushing is slightly thicker than hte Cb and so the bolt will tighten the sides of the CB trunk against the bushing instead of the CB.
I can send you a copy of the Widgeon Manual/Rigging guide that I created with help from D&R Marine if you would like, cost is $10.00 to cover printing and postage (plus I send copies of some old brochures, including 1973).

 

[Brian S]

Widgeon CB

Thanks much. I think something was pinched or the former owner had her tightened down too hard on the trailer. Maiden voyage pleasant surprise, the CB dropped as it should after pulling on the appropriate line.

I'll keep you message just in case. I have what is supposed to be (and looks like) original rigging instructions and some brochure info.

Thanks Again
Brian