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Fitting New Tracks on a Dart 15 (part 2)

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Step 3 : Fitting the track in place

Once the areas where the tracks are to sit is smooth you can now fit the new track in place. I first did a dry fit to make sure that all the rivets could be inserted into their respective holes in the track and hull. I found that I had to slightly widen the holes in the track to match my rivets, the holes in the deck were of the correct diameter, but make any adjustments to the track and not the hull ! the last thing you want to do is widen the holes in the deck. Once happy with this fit, remove it and apply a bead of silicone sealant to the deck where the track sits, this will apply a watertight seal and also it will provide some extra stickiness to ensure that the track stays where its put !!.

Also put some tape opposite where the standard jibsheet positions are, this allows you set a base level position for the jib fairlead adjusters.

The photo above shows the port track in place with the sealant applied it is now ready for riveting. Note the slight curve in the track this is correct but it does make the end rivets fairly awkward to secure in place. I used 17mm rivets but I would advise perhaps using 20mm rivets for extra security.

Step 4 : Riveting

This step is pretty simple, I worked from the stern to the bow riveting each one in turn. One thing to watch for is that occasionally the riveters head gets stuck in the rail at the top of the track, so be careful not to damage the rail when this occurs.

Step 5 : Finishing off

Insert the Jib Fairlead Adjusters into the rail and set them to the position you marked with tape this gives you a good starting point.

Finish off the track by riveting in place the track end pieces (use 20mm rivets for this). You will have to drill a new hole in the deck and track for the end piece so ensure that you mark everything up properly.

Once done you can then install the trampoline and get ready for some sailing !!! Just to satisfy myself I stood up on the trampoline and did a few test bounces and shock loads since the last thing I wanted was for something to give way whilst out on the water !.

Here is the finished article on my boat. Good Luck if you try this ! and remember if you get stuck call in a professional (not me!).

Martin Searle

(Dart 15 1331).

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