Re: [Paddlewise] Kahuna Knee Brace/Pad

From: Tom Yost <tom_yost_at_msn.com>
Date: Wed, 11 Aug 2004 16:53:14 -0600
  Thomas Wrote:
  >>I called and asked the good people at FC about this about 3 months ago.
Apparently, the ribs on the Kahuna and the K1 are made of different materials,
and the "cheaper" materials used on the kahuna ribs won't take to drilling (as
is required to install the K1 knee braces). The individual mentioned they are
thinking about offering the ribs in the more expensive material, but gave no
indicator as to  time frame...

  The Kahuna ribs are Polycarbonate plastic and the more expensive FC boats
use High Density Polyethylene ( HDPE).  The easiest solution is to make your
own replacement rib of HDPE.   Just use the Kahuna rib ( number 2) as a
pattern and trace it onto HDPE with a permanent marker and use a 5/8" forstner
bit to drill the holes.  Drilling and cutting  HDPE can be done with standard
wood bits and blades.  It's easier to work with than  plywood.

  Many plastic retailers sell HDPE and often they have scraps  they will sell
you.  1/2" works fine.  If you can't find HDPE locally, buy a large  HDPE
kitchen cutting board.

  Though the Kahuna uses polycarbonate plastic,  I priced it against an equal
size sheet of HDPE and it cost 3 times as much.  Another interesting fact
about the Kahuna is it's use of 6063 aluminum tubing vs 6061 for the " more
expensive" FC's)  6063-T832 has nearly the same tensile ( 40,000psi)  and
yield strength as 6061-T6, and more importantly is rated higher in corrosion
resistance.  Go figure !

  http://yostwerks.com/Maintenance1a.html<http://yostwerks.com/Maintenance1a.
html> - Making a cross section

  Have fun,

  Tom
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Received on Wed Aug 11 2004 - 15:53:39 PDT

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