WorkshopHow to repair torn footstrap plugs

Manuel Vogel

 · 18.01.2020

Workshop: How to repair torn footstrap plugsPhoto: Stephan Gölnitz
Workshop: How to repair torn footstrap plugs
Unfortunately, the loop plugs on windsurf boards tear out time and again, rendering them unusable. You then have the choice between a costly replacement of the entire row of plugs or an inexpensive quick repair like this one.

Loop plugs that have worn out are now cured "minimally invasively" - no need for major surgery.

"After tight comes loose" - some people will probably recognise this feeling from loop assembly. Frequent re-screwing, screws that are too thin, brute force and material that is too soft - there are many reasons why the plastic thread is suddenly gone. Until now, the only option was to replace the entire loop plug on the board. For a real tinkerer, such a solution is, of course, the last straw. Elmar Edelmann from the board brand Hejfly (formerly HiFly) therefore offers a set with which any halfway talented craftsman can repair the botched plug. The central "invention" is a special insert made from high-strength polyamide. The part just needs to be anchored properly.

And this is how it's done:

surf/M3183668Photo: Stephan Gölnitz

The botched hole in the board is simply drilled a little larger. The appropriate drill bit is included in the repair kit. Drill at a measured speed and with little pressure, exactly in the direction of the existing hole, until the drill hits the bottom slightly (check the depth beforehand if necessary).

surf/M3183669Photo: Stephan Gölnitz

Then cut a fresh thread into this hole. The tap is also included in the set.

surf/M3183670Photo: Stephan Gölnitz

The pre-drilled special plug (with matching external thread) is glued into the fresh thread. For gluing in either epoxy resin (tip: 5-minute epoxy is available cheaply from modelling accessories) or UHU Plus endfest 300.Never use superglue! You can't screw the new plug in as quickly as it sticks.

surf/M3183671Photo: Stephan Gölnitz

After the repair, you should be able to reuse the original Cobra foot loop screws (these have an outer diameter of six millimetres).

Set 1 with drill, special tap and four inserts costs 59 euros; set 2 with only 4 threaded inserts is available for 36 euros.

Information and ordering at info@hejfly.de or 0172-6646132.

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