Fin Bolt

Archive 1999-2004
1

I saw a picture of an unusual looking fin bolt on a Japanese website. Does anyone know how this bolt works and who sells them? If you follow the link that I’ve attached to this message, you’ll see the bolt at the top of the page. http://www.psc-longboard.com/longboard/accessory.html

2

i don’t see threading, just pins and a spring. this may be a wild guess, but if that spring is hard enough, could they have created something like a quick release for a bicycle wheel or seatpost , where you just push down and adjust your fin forward or aft on the fly and then release pressure?

3

I believe that Ramon is right on. If you look at the diagram, there is a pin that indexes the plate to the shaft which is turned by the little fin shaped “handle” - If the spring is compressed by pushing down, the plate can be twisted into the box slot securing the fin. In essence a quick release fin bolt. Good idea - I have no clue where to purchase although if you download the language translator, you could probably order online.

4

I believe that Ramon is right on. If you look at the diagram, there is a > pin that indexes the plate to the shaft which is turned by the little fin > shaped “handle” - If the spring is compressed by pushing down, > the plate can be twisted into the box slot securing the fin. In essence a > quick release fin bolt. Good idea - I have no clue where to purchase > although if you download the language translator, you could probably order > online. I’m looking for a Japanese translator program. Where can I find it? How much does it cost? How do I use it?

5

I think I remeber seeing ads for this bolt in old US surf magazines. I wonder why I haven’t heard much about it lately? I like the idea of being able to change fin position while in the water. http://www.psc-longboard.com/longboard/accessory.html

6

Sorry… When I linked to the ad, I got a box that read “download Japanese TEXT SUPPORT?” I wasn’t paying that much attention after I saw that it takes 23 minutes to download it. That’s what I misinterpreted as a language TRANSLATOR. I believe that there are language translators available however. You might try your search engine on your computer.

7
8

I think I remeber seeing ads for this bolt in old US surf magazines. I > wonder why I haven’t heard much about it lately? I like the idea of being > able to change fin position while in the water. Try Block Surf…I think Larry carries them. One is called the Wonderbolt ($2.75) and the other is the Quick Fin Release($8.00). Phone 805 526 3680

9

Try this go to a fastner hardware store and get stainless hex-cylinder head bolts(about .05-10 cents each).Herb.

10

Hey Herb, I’m not too familiar with the different types of fasteners out there. How does the stainless hex-cylinder head bolt work with the fin? Do I need to buy a spring too?

11

Hey Herb, I’m not too familiar with the different types of fasteners out > there. How does the stainless hex-cylinder head bolt work with the fin? Do > I need to buy a spring too?..Sure you could use a spring,but it would have to be a high quality stainless steel or plastic spring that has the right tension,and sizing…I just use a tiny rubber O-ring.Slide the O-ring on the bolt.It works like a tensioner,and a lock.Also,take a standard finbolt with you to the store for sizing.In the 70s there was a bolt called a fin cam (which I still own a functional one)that didn’t go over so well ,because of price out weighing function.Herb.P.S.Make sure that the cylinder head is a “tall” head.Herb

12

Best fastener store in the Long Beach area is GSA Supply, now an Ace Hardware store, onPacific Coast Highway between the 710 freeway and Santa Fe on the north side of the street. They have the best selection of stainless, brass, and nylon bolts around. Aloha,OL

13

Just to let you know, that style of fin bolt is not just a new Japanese thing. My friend has had one on his board for over a year. It is kind of a “quick release” bolt, but it latches down really tight. He got his at Just Longboards in Hermosa Beach. I don’t know where you are, but I’m sure you could call them or call around and find one easier than making one.