What exactly is restricted by:
Rule 26 Repairs and maintenanceAdd new rule: 26(f):The use of lubricants is unrestricted except that they shall not be used on the hull (below the gunwhales).EXPLANATION: The inclusion of specific wording removes any doubt about legality.
Does this make the application of McLube to the hull illegal?
I ask because wasn't there a rule change last year that allowed for the application of lubricants to the spars to allow the sail to slide better? I recollect something about the clew.
Is there going to be a definition in the rules of "lubricant"?
McLube is actually teflon that is in liquid form, but drys. I guess you can consider it a "dry" lubricant? Actually, I think it is advertised as a lubricant. I use it on my spars, blocks and sail.
Under the usual strick policy of our class rules I would say it is illegal. This is a good question.
Re-finishing of the hull has always been illegal, whether as a lubricant or polish. The only things you can do to the hull are 1, repair damage. 2, clean it (with something that does not leave a residue).
This change is to allow the clew tie down and the loops around the boom for the XD outhaul to be lubricated
It was rule 11b I was thinking of and particually the section 'improve the performance, finish, materials or shape beyond the original is not permitted.' I always understood this to mean you couldn't use waxes, polishes or lubricants that stayed on the hull and made it more slippery.
My hull is smooth as a baby's butt, too, with a bit of diaper rash.