daggerboard and mast track

Question
Hi, i just bought a Fanatic Hot Bat, and i was hoping you'd be able to clear a couple of little things im pondering about. the first is the mast track, in that it can be put in different positions marked by numbers, and in the track a cut out sections to help lock it in, but when its in a position it moves back and forth about 1cm either way, and there a little cord coming out of it that when you pull it tight seem to stop it moving, but theres no-where to tie this cord to?? and then secondaly when the daggerboard is completely retracted i can push it out again with my foot as it wont move without a severe pull from a hand that should be holding the boom. I think its something to do with the daggerboard hole covering on the underside to stop water as its not that flexible, but i have't a clue really, so hoping yopu coulsd shed some light on these thingys? thanks, and sorry i could have made it shorter =].   Oli

Answer
Hey Oli,

On the older Fanatic movable mast tracks, a little play in the mast base when it is locked in is normal. You may or may not notice this when sailing. As long as it stays locked in and moves when you want it too, everything should be fine. As for the cord, look at the nose of the board and there should be a small insert with a metal rod across the opening. The rope would normally tie to this rod. This is a European thing. In the early days of windsurfing, most European countries required the mast to have a safety line attached to the board in case the mast came apart from the board. To the best of my knowledge, it is no longer required as new boards don't have this feature anymore. If it retracts and stays out of your way, then just leave it.

The daggerboard, when inserted properly, should pivot fairly smoothly. You should be able to use your foot to push the handle forward to retract it and pull it back to have the daggerboard down. With the age of the board, the covering on the bottom may be a bit stiff and make the daggerboard movement kind of stiff. It should be easier when you are on the water and with everything wet, the water will act as lubricant. If you are still having trouble moving it, you might try some silcon spray on the pivot points and a little on the cover on the inside of the daggerboard slot. Try to be minimal with the spray as you don't want any on the board or on the handle where you foot will be moving the daggerboard.

Hope this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover