Set out below is the best possible procedure in removing the steel Centreplate from the Wanderer using a land-based situation rather than on water.

Proceed as follows:-

1. Remove the launching trolley and wanderer from the road trailer and then, locating a soft piece of ground or grass with perhaps an off-cut of carpet to protect the boat, slide the boat from its launching trolley and locate the boat entirely onto the ground.  This operation must be done with the steel centreplate withdrawn inside the centre casing of the boat, not released and sitting on the cross member of the trailer as recommended when normally trailing.

2. Having positioned the boat on grass it is advisable to try and find some soft cushions, or similar blocks to put both under port and starboard to stop the boat from rocking when you commence the withdrawal operation.

3. You can now start to release and unscrew the bolt on the centreplate and with the aid of a helper it is important, before finally knocking the bolt through with a screwdriver or similar, to take the tension from the bolt by slightly lifting the centreplate with the rubber stoppers. It would also be advisable to find a small plastic tube to lay inside the centre casing, both fore and aft, so as the withdrawal process is started the plastic tube will protect that part of the casing. You will also need to remove the 2 friction pads screwed on to the top of the centre casing to give more freedom of movement.

4. Position yourself over the centreplate slightly forward of centre facing the bow and slowly start to pull the plate up into a vertical position, the plate will obviously be running on grass or carpet and should therefore be easily lifted. Having achieved this position it is a two handed exercise to slowly move upwards, and when finally out of its casing to turn slowly onto its side and pass to a helper who will then carry it to a pre-destined area for storage.  When removing the plate you will find two discs which are positioned around the bolt hole which act as spacers and protect the case when bolting up. These will not be used when sailing with a wooden plate.

5. Slip the wooden plate back into the casing and bolt up making sure that the friction pad is screwed tight for entry and we recommend a little wax in order to allow it to move freely through the entry slot. The plate is bolted with the following procedure: insert the mid stainless steel bolt which should have first the washer and the rubber grommet in position then pass the bolt through the centre casing and plate adding the grommet first then washer and nut in the same manner as the opposite side, prior to finally securing apply a small amount of mastic sealant around the entry hole on both sides. Complete the operation by tightening the assembly together without putting too much strain on the casing, it needs firm fixing only. Having completed this operation the friction pad can be adjusted accordingly as described in our handbook.

Note: The above description is extracted from the instructions supplied to owners of new or converted boats with a steel centre board by Anglo Marine Services when trading. All rights acknowledged. Use of these instructions is entirely at the risk of the boat owner or person undertaking the work.