Thanks to Sammy Isaacs-Johnson for today's tips on RS Aero Maintenance. Sammy is one of our RS Aero UK Youth Team coaches and has earned the nickname 'RS Aero Class Rigger'. Over the last 3 years he has fitted 'On-deck' control lines to over 100 RS Aeros! Whether you have your RS Aero at home now or it’s parked up safe waiting for the season to eventually arrive, here are a few ideas, hints and tips to get your RS Aero up to speed!

'1. General clean - Giving your hull and covers a good clean with a sponge and soapy water works brilliantly bringing your hull back to the brilliant white it once was! The joys of the lightweight RS Aero gives you no excuses not to flip the boat over and do the underside too!

2. Five Point wear check - Even the top sailors make the odd mistake. Be it a running aground or just general wear and tear, here are a few key places on your boat to check;

• Ropes - Some points to check for chafe include the traveller, rudder downhaul, vang and Halyard.
• Foils - Check for chips and dings and for those skilled in the art of Gel-coating, repair
• Daggerboard Gasket Fluff - Make sure this hasn’t come unstuck.
• Mast - It’s worth checking all mast sections. Some key areas are the halyard cleat and the nut that holds the gooseneck in!
• Water - It may seem really silly to say, but make sure your hull is completely empty of water and the bung is back in straight and tight!

3. Upgrades - Have a read of the RS Aero Class Facebook page and the RS Aero Class Association Forum as to what personal ideas people may be adding to their boats. From 'how to stop my water bottle falling out when I capsize' to 'tapered kickers' and beyond. There are lots of hints and tips out there to make sailing your RS Aero easier and perhaps a little quicker!

 

FAQ’s
Q: What is slot gasket fluff?
A: The fur that holds your daggerboard in the boat!
Q: My RS Aero has developed a yellow tint. Can I remove this?
A: YES! Products like ‘Yachticon Yellow Stain Remover’ that contain Oxalic Acid take it off right away.
Q: My halyard often slips while I’m sailing?
A: Firstly check your rope and cleat are in good shape and then this little trick will help. Once you pull your sail up on land, pull your downhaul as hard as you can. This will tighten the halyard at the top of the sail. You can then pull your sail all the way to the top! '