Hi,
I have a late 70's early 80's Sunfish which has been a lot fun. The trouble I have been having is that I keep bending the pintel in the rudder when sailing the boat. I am going out in some heavy winds gusts up to 25 knts. I am on my second one and this pintel bent also. Has anyone else experinced this problem or have any suggestions.
Sounds like your sail isn't balanced for the conditions. Take a look at the FAQ's for a tuning guide. With the adjustment of the gooseneck ( except in extreme weather) you will put far less pressure in the pintle and sail faster.