How do I install the vent screw in my new board?

If you have just unwrapped your new board in there is a hole in front of (or sometimes behind) the mast track, then likely in the mast track wrapped in plastic (or sometimes in the hardware pack) is a vent screw.

Not installing the vent screw in leaves you with a hole directly into the foam core of your board, and will result in your board taking on water if you go sailing. Taking the vent out when travelling by plane is mandatory so that the pressure inside and outside the baord can equalize. Not doing so will cause your board to inflate (lower air pressure outside, higher inside the board), which will all but ruin your board. Just remeber to put it back in once you land (See Ask Evan from Thursday, January 12, 2006 for more details on how to remember).

Your first step to install the screw is to take it out of the plastic wrap. Almost as important as the screw itself is the black gasket, just beneath the head. Without this, the screw won't effectively seal, and the risk of taking on water is high.

Put the screw into the hole, and thread it a couple of threads with your fingers, making sure not to cross thread the hole in the board.

For the final step, leave the torque wrench or power screwdriver in the garage, and simply screw the vent screw down until it is hand tight.