Components and Adjustments

Pakesso with skeg, Fjell with skeg, Fjord with skeg, Ellesmere, Labrador with skeg and Baffin

Control system very easy to use

A control knob adjusts the angle and depth of the skeg. Use the reference line on the control knob and the graduated decal reading from 0 to 5 (representing a range of 0 to 50 degrees) alongside the control knob. The paddler can easily choose the skeg angle he or she wishes. The control knob is recessed and positioned on the right hand side of the deck, just forward of the paddler’s right knee.

The control knob is connected to the skeg by a Spectra® Cord, which is inserted into a nylon tube in the kayak. A brass fitting ensures that the end of the nylon tube near the skeg is watertight. The skeg is activated by weight and a shock cord that pulls it down when the control knob is turned. If you accidentally hit a submerged object, the skeg will retract and return to its position automatically.

The anodized aluminium blade swivels on a pivot. The new skeg box is optimized to offer more available storage space in the stern compartment. Care should be taken when loading the kayak to avoid putting excessive pressure on the nylon tube where it connects to the skeg box.

If required, the friction level can be easily adjusted at the control knob using the central screw. A minimum level of friction is required to keep the skeg in the non-engaged position. Further adjustment can be made to the skeg position using the screw securing the Spectra® Cord.

Sand and pebbles can sometimes accumulate in the skeg box, blocking the mechanism. To avoid this problem, we recommend climbing into your kayak with the stern end completely in the water, rather than a beach start. On days when waves prevent this, you should raise and lower the skeg several times once you have departed from the turbulent shoreline. This will avoid residue accumulating in the skeg box.  If the blade refuses to lower, ask another paddler to reach under the lower hull to try to unblock it manually. If this does not work, turn back to shore to see what is blocking the mechanism.

Maintenance

Skeg adjustment