DS 1 Centerboard gasket

[hales]

I am changing out my old centerboard gasket on my 1968 DS 1 b/c it looks deteriorated and I am pretty sure it is leaking. Do I need to have the centerboard (a) in the up position and supported, (b) up position and not supported or (c) in the down position?? or (d) it does not matter.
Thanks for your suggestions.

[Findlay]

I just recently replaced my Centerboard Gasket (round) on a DS1. The actual position of the CB before starting is not important as long as the square bolt hole stays lined up so you can easily reinstall the CB handle after replacing the gasket. I would block the CB in place from underneath(it is heavy so be careful). Check the flange that the gasket mates with to ensure no gouges or cracks and use multi-purpose grease on the gasket to aid in sealing. Check for leakage the next time in the water and use the three bolts which adjust/hold the handle's pressure plate to tighten as required to ensure no leaks. If the CB does move before you can reinsert the handle use a tip protected screwdriver or some other leverage to move the CB back into position to install the handle.

[navahoIII]

A few weeks ago I replaced the rubber gasket (Rudy has them at D&R Marine) for the cb handle on our circa 1963 DSI.

Afterwards, when we launched her on her "shakedown cruise" we spent 15 - 20 mintues paddling around on the lake while I vainly tried to lower the centerboard. It was stubbornly stuck. Then, I realized that I had not pushed the handle quite forward enough before lifting the release latch. It was a half-inch or so that made the difference.

Hope this saves you some time!