Old OBrien Parts Qustion
Question
I was given an older model O'Brien "Electric Banana" (Allgaier System 83) windsurfer. The Mast foot clips into the board just fine. Rising out of the mast foot was a flexible rubber rod (approx 6"). That rod, which inserts into a cylindrical housing (upon which the mast pole sits) has snapped.
Any ideas as to how I can replace that rubber rod?
My thanks in advance for any insight or direction.
Answer
The old equipment is best left in a museum. I am saying this because if you sail a newer board you will not believe how much easier and more fun they are. If you really like windsurfing get yourself a used board about 5 or so years old with a sail about the same age. Unfortunately the old boards all had different proprietary systems and the parts are impossible to find. There is only one place I know of that has some old parts but this is really like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Try the-house.com You never know, you may get lucky on that part. You may be talking about the universal joint which is a rubber hour glass shaped piece. Universals are about 3" tall and allow the mast to pivot and bend above the board. If that is the broken part then you can get a new one from the-house.
http://www.the-house.com/ch515zzchinook.html
upgrading
Windsurfing mast position