Centerboard Bushing, Spreader Boots

[Erin]

It has been suggested to me to replace the centerboard bushing that the pin rests in. I don't know if it needs to be, but figure I might as well while I am down there. I would like to buy the replacement before I drop the centerboard out so that I have it on hand to replace.. For the life of me, I cannot find specs on it anywhere. Does anyone know what size the bushing is?

Also, I need new spreader boots and I am not sure whether to get medium or large (1"-2" ends or 2"-3" ends). I'm thinking medium, but I'm a terrible judge of size looking at my spreader tips from the deck... Can anyone advise on that and save me a trip up the mast to check?

Thanks!!

[cheeryo]

I would not be too quick to replace the bushing. See my centerboard pictures on the projects section. There needs to be slop in the bushing hole to prevent the board from hanging up.

[roverhi]

Is there actually a bushing or is it just a hole in the board?? Almost all the serious loads on the board are side lorces. Their is little load on the pin or where it passes through the board. Mucking about with the pin and its housing can open up a can of worms.

[lod]

Check www.pearson35.com/projects/CENTER_BOARD_2013.htm Peter

[Erin]

Yes, there is a bushing. The original was wearing down around the edges, so I went ahead and replaced it with a new one with nearly the same dimensions as the original, but with edges that are not worn down. I believe the dimensions were 1.75" long with outer diameter 1.25" and inner diameter 1.0".