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The Pearson Current
VOL. 7, #4
2002
Centerboard Saga
by Larry Bragg

Like Kerry Staufer (TPC vol. 7 No. 3, pg. 3), I too ended up with an early 70s P35, sans centerboard. It surprised me that, although a popular boat, there was such a lack of information on centerboard replacement.

I talked to D&R, (see Pearson resources), who have some of the original molds. They can still make an official P35 centerboard and will be happy to quote a price. I could never locate any original plans or drawings.

Several years ago, I happened across a storm-damaged P35 someone was rebuilding. The centerboard was lying on the ground beside it. After several unsuccessful attempts to locate the owner, I finally took a piece of 1/4-inch plywood, laid the board on it, and made a template. I think it weighs about 125 pounds and is probably fiberglass over foam construction with some kind of steel or lead weight inside.

At this point, I have made a mock up out of plywood and one of these days, I’ll get around to making, or maybe buying, a new board. For now, I really don’t miss having one. I hope these plans can help anyone in the same position.
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