De-bonding of Reinforcing Strip on Sail Trailing Edge
The sails on the RC Laser are virtually indestructible but there is one aspect that occasionally (rarely) causes a problem. A mylar reinforcing panel is glued along the leach (trailing edge) of the sail. This panel keeps the primary sail material from fraying and stretching along the trailing edge. It is applied with an adhesive and then bound by the corner reinforcements top and bottom. On rare occasions, the mylar panel has been known to separate from the sail. This can occur in any of the sail sizes although it is unlikely to be seen in the large sail as it is not normally used in the high winds that cause this de-bonding.
If you encounter this problem, you will likely see localised de-bonding. One solution is to run a strip of good quality 50mm wide transparent packing tape along the leading edge. The tape will hold up well to the elements, and does not stiffen and change the appearance of the sails. It keeps the wind from getting under the leading edge of the mylar which is what lifts it up in the first place.
The Rudder Does Not Move Freely
First Check
The rudder pintle (the cylindrical pin at the top of the rudder) very occasionally comes with a small ?ridge” from the moulding process. This is rare but if you find that your one does, you should sand it using fine sand paper – just until it is round and smooth.
Second Check
Before installing the rudder it is also a good idea to get in the habit of putting a little light grease or vaseline on the pintle. This will ensure the pintle turns smoothly and easily in the gudgeon (the hole that the pintle slides into and swivels within).
Third Check
The tiller on your boat is fastened in place with a stainless steel screw that passes through a tiller bearing. If you took the screw out you would see that there is a removable bearing piece that is designed to keep the screw from binding on the tiller itself – theoretically. If you crank down on this screw too hard, you can however apply unnecessary friction to tiller movement. A little light grease or vaseline on this bearing will make things nice and slippery. Also it will prevent water from seeping around the screw in rough weather.
Important Note : You need to unhook the steering horn from the servo to adjust the tiller screw. Otherwise, you can’t feel how easily the tiller turns