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How to Install a Turn Fin

A turn fin is a control surface installed on radio-controlled hydroplane-style racing boats. A fixed, metal or carbon fiber turn fin mounts on the rear of the boat at the inside edge of the left or right sponson -- one of the twin outrigger planing surfaces common to hydroplane design. Installation of a turn fin allows the hydro to turn sharper and faster with more stability. It also improves straight-line performance.

Things You'll Need

Screwdriver
Pliers
Power drill and bits
Epoxy glue

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the screw and nut securing the turn fin to its mounting bracket. Remove the turn fin from the bracket.
- 2
  Place the mounting bracket approximately 1/16-inch from the inside edge of the sponson and 1/16-inch from its bottom.
- 3
  Mark the position of the mounting bracket screw hole on the sponson.
- 4
  Drill a hole in the sponson at the mark, slightly smaller than the hole in the mounting bracket.
- 5
  Screw the supplied mounting bolt into the hole, then unscrew it.
- 6
  Coat the bolt with epoxy. Position the mounting bracket in place on the rear of the sponson, aligning the hole in the mounting bracket with the drilled hole.
- 7
  Insert the bolt through the hole in the mounting bracket and into the hole in the sponson. Make sure the edge of the mounting bracket is parallel with the inside edge of the sponson, then tighten the bolt.
- 8
  Reinstall the turn fin on the mounting bracket and secure with the screw and nut.

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