From: Nico Walsh
Sent: November 11, 2021
To: Will Curry
Subject: Question, loose transom nuts

I just completed a 300 mile run in 35 knots, the wind right astern most of the time. Pretty good seas. The vane was outstanding. I think it really is made for the Cabo Rico 34, which tracks so well in any case.

The nuts on the transom bolts had loosened when I checked after the sail. I re-torqued them (hard), and used Loc-Tite red. Any suggestions beyond that?

Nicholas

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On Nov 12, 2021,  Richard Minielly wrote:

Hi Nico,

Thank you so much for the feedback. We love to hear honest feedback, as it provides us with crucial information on Hydrovane performance. Do you mind if we add your email to our Testimonials page?

Regarding the nuts, it sounds like you’ve done everything right to re-torque the nuts after your first large sail. On top of re-torquing and potentially adding Loctite (we don’t recommend it, but there is no harm in adding it and great peace of mind), the only other solution would be to add an additional lock nut onto the bolt, further preventing any loosening.

As a side note, now that the Nyloc nut has been sealed with Loctite, you will need to replace the nut should you ever remove it. Loctite will damage the nylon inside the nut if it is adjusted once dried.

Thanks again for reaching out and don’t hesitate to reach out again with any questions at all.

Cheers,

Richard Minielly

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From: Nico Walsh
Sent: November 12, 2021
To: Richard Minielly
Subject: Re: Question, loose transom nuts

I didn’t use Nylocs. I should have, certainly.

Go ahead and use the testimonial.

Nicholas

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On Nov 12, 2021,  Richard Minielly wrote:

Ah – that likely explains the loosening. Loctite and/or a second nut on there should stop any loosening. The vibration, primarily from motoring, can loosen regular bolts over a passage. We use Nyloc nuts on the entire unit to prevent nuts vibrating loose over time.

Thanks for reaching out. Please let us know if anything else comes up.

Cheers,

Richard Minielly