I figured I should start a new (related) thread.
I've only ever been able to partially deploy my centerboard, but when partially down it'll "thump" a bit as the boat rocks back and forth.  Since I have the centerboard cap off trying to figure out why the board won't fully deploy, I figured I'd take a look at the pivot slot.  Overall the slot looks okay, with just a bit of obvious wear and tear, mostly to the paint.   I noticed that when the board is moved so that the pivot pin is firm against one side of the slot, there's about 1/4 inch of space between the pin and the other side of the slot.  I'm wondering if this is about the proper tolerance or if there's too much of a gap?  Also, there were two lengths of vinyl tubing placed in the slot on port and starboard sides of the centerboard.  Are these supposed to be shock absorbers?  I guess they would also discourage the  board from moving up into the slot during a grounding.  Mine are hard as a rock and I suppose they should be replaced with something more flexible.  Any thoughts?

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