Posted by David D I only hesitate to tell you this because it can be a little dangerous if you are not careful. The modified fin was Dave O's brainchild and is most useful for blasting through the sorts of loose grasses and other items which are near the surface of the water. Once you are no longer planing, there is really no beneficial effect. David D
on 9/20/2005, 6:19 pm, in reply to "Re: Weed razors on fins"
204.210.60.193
Michal,
To modify your fin, use a hacksaw blade to carefully cut a slot in the base (tuttle)of the fin. The angle of the slot should match the angle of the leading edge of the fin. Take care to align the slot perfectly so the the blade will not be tilted or angled improperly. The slot should not be so deep that the blade will actually contact the leading edge of the fin. It should leave a gap of about 2mm between the trailing edge of the blade and the leading edge of the fin. The blade to use is the stainless steel version of the no. 11 blade manufactured by x-acto. It may be available in any large hobby shop where model aircraft supplies are available, or possibly a good art store. If you can not find these locally, there are internet hobby tools dealers who sell them.
One blade will usually last about half a year unless you hit something hard. This means that its important to make sure your blade can be removed and replaced from time to time. Usually a layer of electrical tape wrapped over the embedded end will provide a tight fit. Don't try to use your hands to insert, adjust or remove the blade or you will most likely get blood all over your fin. A small pair of pliers is the perfect tool for that job.
I will be glad to send you a small photo of one of these modified fins. Just send me an email.
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