Musto Skiff FAQ – Original post updated by Brennan Robinson in December 2025.
All Musto Skiffs are supplied with the highest specification foils, made from CNC aluminium tools and the best quality materials available. However, before you go sailing with a new boat, or having replaced your rudder gasket, it is very important that you check the fit of the rudder blade in the aluminium cassette stock.
The aluminium stock is lined with a 3M self adhesive grey fluffy liner (which used to be white, and referred to as ‘polar bear pubes’). This material is there to protect the rudder from the aluminium surface and to provide a sliding surface for the rudder to move against. However, the materials thickness can vary and this can make the rudder very stiff to put in.
What you need to do
Before you go sailing, slide the rudder into the top of the aluminium stock, and push down firmly. If the rudder will not go through the stock, remove it and carefully slide a sharp knife (i.e. Stanley knife) across the surface of the white fluffy material. You will find the knife will slide easily one way, and not easily the other way. The knife should slowly remove the outer surface of the 3M material making it less thick. Keep trying until the rudder fits the stock.
As a note, the 3M material does get flatter with time, so it is best to have a slightly stiff rudder to start with and use a silicone spray to help it slide. Also note that the rudder blade will go in easier when wet, so try that as well before you remove too much material.
It is also worth checking the daggerboard before you first launch, or after replacing that gasket.
Want to get more rigging tips and advice from various Musto Skiff boat owners? Check out our “Pimp My Skiff” page, which is based on the most asked questions within the class.
Got something to ask about the Musto Skiff?
Share your boat related questions with the international class committee at [email protected] and you might just see it featured in a future ‘FAQ: Topic of the Month’ on our class website or in our monthly class newsletter.
Image Credit: © Tim Olin
