Adjustment on ST Fins - Top of fin rubbing chain

Hi guys I got a set of ST fins for my Revo this week. I've done a lot of searching on here to figure out proper adjustment. Looks like the most effective/popular way to set the clew is to have it loose rather than tight - supposedly makes for easier pedling with little to no decrease in speed.

Here's my issue - The chain appears to be rubbing one edge of the fin. Doesn't seem to matter if the clew is loose or tight. Both Fins look basically identical - each slightly rubbing the chain. Does it matter if the chain rubs a little part of the fin off? Or should I take a razor blade and cut a small section of the fin out to make it fit? Any ideas?

Thanks guys!

Your fin still looks too tight to me. Drop it down to about 1/8" retention (in the slot) at the back of the fin and see if it doesn't also clear your chain interference. If not, a little trim won't hurt.

Thanks. I'll try to loosen it some more tonight. How much exposed mast space am I looking for (approximatly)? Quarter of an inch, maybe more?

Like RR says, drop the rear of the fin down a little. It should clear the little bit of touching we're looking at there. I'd almost think that in the water it wouldn't be like that. More pressure would change the shape of things. Shoot for the 1/8th inch of fin up in the rear of the slot. See what that does and let us know. I'm thinking that little bit of touching will disappear even if left alone. Still agree the rear should be released a little more. Good luck.

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Yakkingaway
Portsmouth, VA

I like to see a good 1/4" slide on the mast as a confirmation that the fin can flex adequately.

Thanks guys. Loosing it up some more took care of the rubbing. I still wonder why the chain notches don't exactly line up with my chains. Wonder if my masts are bent a little too far foward? They appear to fit exactly the same on each fin. My last adjustment got a solid 1/4 of mast exposed.

Last question - is it possible to loosen the clew so much that the screw will pull out while under way? I carry the kitchen sink with me when I go out, so my Standard fins will be on my boat at all times, so I'm not too much concerned about loosing one one of the ST fins - 2 minute fix if you have your Standard fins with you. Just curious.

Thanks again for all the info!

That looks much better. Don't worry about the fin notch position -- it's not critical and not indicative of any problems.

The current generation clew adjustment screws are notched at the end of the threads to prevent accidental separation. You should inspect the position frequently though -- if you detect any movement, you can use a dab of Loctite Blue at the brass nut.

Looking forward to your evaluation!