• Registered: 2011-08-27
  • Posts: 10

Topic: What is the slot for?

On my 1985 Contessa, on the trim that holds the washboards in place, there is a 3" slot at the top, offset to starboard. What is the purpose of this slot? The washboard on mine does not utilize the slot for locking. In fact, when locking up, the top board angles back toward the cockpit, leaving the width of the washboard directly underneath the slot, allowing a bit of water to enter the cabin when the dodger is not in place. I want to have new washboards made, and would 1st like to know the purpose of the slot.
Thank you.

  • Adrian
  • Adrian
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  • From: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  • Registered: 2005-04-18
  • Posts: 542

Re: What is the slot for?

My Contessa, #322, used that slot for locking. There was a metal tab attached to the washboard that could rotate up and into that slot, and then stick out the top of the rounded trim. There was a hole in that tab that allowed a padlock to be put in place, effectively locking the boat.

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  • Registered: 2011-08-27
  • Posts: 10

Re: What is the slot for?

Thank you. That makes sense. The lock on mine must have been changed over the 26 years.

  • Registered: 2011-08-27
  • Posts: 10

Re: What is the slot for?

I posted a picture of the new companionway washboards ( Pic #47/115 ). No more getting high from fumes in the basement. 2 questions...
(1) Where can I purchase the locking mechanism? Or, what are the dimensions so I could make one. I imagine there is a backing plate with a hole drilled for mounting.. a plastic washer.. then a rectangular slotted piece for rotating up through the teak trim. Trying not to recreate the wheel dimension-wise.
(2) Is there also a handle mounted on the inside?
Thank you, Hammerhead
Itching to being on her in the water for the 1st time instead of just working on her.