Oversize holes in the deck

published 06/03/2020

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QUESTION: Is it permissible to cut a hole in the deck, larger than required for a block to be lashed in place and to allow some movement of the block?

ANSWER: No.

 

The response from Bill Abbott is:

The holes in the pictures that have been sent to me are not in compliance with the Etchells Class Rules.
See Class Rule C 7.1.(d) Which is the responsibility of the boat owner, and  D.2.3.(a), (b) , which is the responsibility of the builder.
Reason: These pictures show a square hole cut into the deck, with a loose block hung or fastened either at the back of or under the hole, to allow free movement of the block in the hole.
It is not a fitting installation or the size of hole required for the passage of the line.

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