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Hi Martin,
Since about sail number #2100 RS Aeros were supplied with an easily detachable mainsheet block base with a quick release catch. This assists the speedy stacking of RS Aeros when necessary for transport. The new base is attached to the hull with 3 screws, rather than 2, for added security and to take the loads of the optional swivel cleat accessory, for those who wanted that option.
The RS Aero Triangular Key (also known on the RS Sailing Store website as the 'RS Bottle Opener') is supplied with all new RS Aeros and fits into the triangular hole at the back of the fitting to release the catch and allow the mainsheet set up to slide off backwards. You do not specifically need to use that bespoke RS key as a screw driver or your house keys can just as easily be inserted to release the catch. The RS Aero Triangular key is however also handy as a bottle opener at its the other end, to celebrate your new toe strap!
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Since about sail number #2100 RS Aeros were supplied with an easily detachable mainsheet block base with a quick release catch. This assists the speedy stacking of RS Aeros when necessary for transport. The new base is attached to the hull with 3 screws, rather than 2, for added security and to take the loads of the optional swivel cleat accessory, for those who wanted that option.
The RS Aero Triangular Key (also known on the RS Sailing Store website as the 'RS Bottle Opener') is supplied with all new RS Aeros and fits into the triangular hole at the back of the fitting to release the catch and allow the mainsheet set up to slide off backwards. You do not specifically need to use that bespoke RS key as a screw driver or your house keys can just as easily be inserted to release the catch. The RS Aero Triangular key is however also handy as a bottle opener at its the other end, to celebrate your new toe strap!
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30/04/2025 11:57:00
Peter Barton
Posts: 5114
Hi, I need to replace my toestrap which went with a bang last time out. What is the Aero triangular key?
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30/04/2025 11:02:00
Martin Gibson
Posts: 1
Simon - just to say thanks, did mine last week end with a printout of your explanation in front of me - very helpful...
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I did this recently and this is what I used:
Hammer
Small rectangular block piece of wood (e.g. 10 cm by 4 cm by 2 cm)
The Aero triangular key
Phillips screwdriver
Silicone sealant
Appropriate I'm-fixing-something-on-my-boat music
First of all I used the triangular tool to push in the catch next to the mainsheet block. Then placed the block of wood against the mainsheet block support and tapped it out (gently!).
I undid the three screws found underneath, lift off the plastic mount and you'll find the toestrap will release. Then I unscrewed the two screws in the middle of the toe strap and the two towards the bottle holder near the rudder mount. Dont forget to undo the elastic at the back that holds your drink bottle down if you havent already done so.
I then applied a small blob of sealant over the 7 screw holes before screwing in all the screws and put the new toe strap on. You might find it easier to loosen all the straps before fitting it so you have some wriggle room with placing the toe strap. At the mainsheet end I found it easier to put the screws through the black plastic and the three toestrap holes before placing over the holes to screw in.
Grab the mainsheet block and support and push it back into position. You might need the hammer and block of wood to gently persuade it back in until its flush. Reattach the bottle elastic and adjust the straps to your preferences and you should be fine.
I left everything for a few days to make sure the sealant had set.
Hope that helps!
Cheers
Simon
A Brit in Australia
Reply
Hammer
Small rectangular block piece of wood (e.g. 10 cm by 4 cm by 2 cm)
The Aero triangular key
Phillips screwdriver
Silicone sealant
Appropriate I'm-fixing-something-on-my-boat music
First of all I used the triangular tool to push in the catch next to the mainsheet block. Then placed the block of wood against the mainsheet block support and tapped it out (gently!).
I undid the three screws found underneath, lift off the plastic mount and you'll find the toestrap will release. Then I unscrewed the two screws in the middle of the toe strap and the two towards the bottle holder near the rudder mount. Dont forget to undo the elastic at the back that holds your drink bottle down if you havent already done so.
I then applied a small blob of sealant over the 7 screw holes before screwing in all the screws and put the new toe strap on. You might find it easier to loosen all the straps before fitting it so you have some wriggle room with placing the toe strap. At the mainsheet end I found it easier to put the screws through the black plastic and the three toestrap holes before placing over the holes to screw in.
Grab the mainsheet block and support and push it back into position. You might need the hammer and block of wood to gently persuade it back in until its flush. Reattach the bottle elastic and adjust the straps to your preferences and you should be fine.
I left everything for a few days to make sure the sealant had set.
Hope that helps!
Cheers
Simon
A Brit in Australia
Reply
02/06/2021 00:40:00
Simon Wilkins
Posts: 21
Hi, any top tips for changing the toe strap? Ie how not to do it, tools to bring etc? Thanks everyone! Matt
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