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CL257 Auto-Release Racing Mini
Auto Release rudder downhauls. Prevent blade damage.
| Technical Details | Metric | Imperial | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rope Diameter |  |
4 - 6mm | 5/32 - 1/4" |
| Material |  |
Aluminium & Acetal | Aluminium & Acetal |
| Hole Centres |  |
36mm | 1 3/8" |
| Length |  |
68mm | 2 5/8" |
| Width |  |
22mm | 7/8" |
| Height |  |
28mm | 1 1/8 |
| Bolt Size |  |
M4 | #8-32. 5/32" |
| Screw Size |  |
4.2 | No 8 |
| Weight |  |
31gms | 1.1oz |
Availability:
In stock
SKU
Clamcleat-CL257
Don't damage your rudder blade! The Clamcleat® CL257 Auto-Release cleat provides the neatest and best solution to the problem of how to lock-down a rudder blade yet allow it to flip-up if it hits the bottom or a solid obstacle in the water. The cleat holds ropes securely yet will release them immediately the cleat is overloaded.
Once tripped, it can be easily reset in seconds by just pushing the cleat back down into its base. The CL257 is fitted with an adjustable cam so that the release tension can be set to suit the boat and local conditions. The cam is adjusted until the rudder blade is held down reliably under maximum sailing conditions. The CL257 will then be set so that the least strain is put on the rudder if it hits an obstacle.
The CL257 can be fitted to virtually all lifting tillers and can also be used to protect centre boards. Fitting instructions are included with every CL257 and are also in the Downloads tab. Above images show how to rig for 2:1 advantage or with different sized ropes.
If you loose the cam, a replacement kit is CL257UG.
A standard cleat of the same size as the CL257 is the CL222.
If you want a fairlead, look at the CL211 Mk2.
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Q: What size of rope should I use on my CL257 cleat?
Ans: The size of rope used on the CL257 is from 4 to 6mm (3/16 – ¼”).
Q: Does Clamcleat® make an Auto-Release cleat?
Ans: Clamcleat® make an Auto-Release cleat part no CL257 which is designed to use 4-6mm (3/16 – ¼”) rope.
Q: What is an Auto-Release cleat?
Ans: The Auto-Release cleat from Clamcleat® is a hinged cleat which sits in a plastic housing which flips open once a set load is exceeded. The load can be adjusted and re-set very easily. Ideal for use on you dagger plate to pervert any damage if it hits an underwater obstruction.
Q: Can the Auto-Release cleat be used on larger ropes?
Ans: The Auto-release cleat from Clamcleat® can be used on larger ropes by splicing in the 4-6mm (3/16 – ¼”) rope at the point the rope sits in the cleat.
Q: Why does Clamcleat® not publish safe working loads (SWL) or break loads for its cleats?
Ans: The quality, type and style of the rope or cord plays a major role in the performance of the cleat. Normally the better the quality of the rope the greater holding power, also some cleats are designed to slip once they exceed the desired holding load as a safety feature including securing fabrics such as sunshades or covers.
Q: Do you get a better performance with an Aluminum cleat?
Ans: Aluminum cleats do not improve the performance of the cleat, but they can achieve higher holding loads and they also might improve the lifespan of the cleat especially if the rope will be in contact with the teeth whilst the rope is being pulled through during adjustment.
Q: What different coating are there for the Aluminum cleats?
Ans: The standard coating for the cleat is a Stoving Aluminum silver enamel coating. For extra protection from corrosion and a high-tech appearance the cleats are also available in a dark grey Hard anodized finish. The part no in suffixed with “AN” to identify the hard anodized finish.
Q: How long should an Aluminum cleat last?
Ans: This really depends on the usage, the quality and age of the rope used etc. so is very difficult to gauge. The ultraviolet rays will discolor the cleats over time and in very sunny climates may affect the life of the cleat. In extreme climates the life expectancy should be 10 -15 years depending on usage and in more moderate climate 20 + years.
Q: What type of rope or cord will give the best performance on my cleats?
Ans: In our experience a braided good quality rope gives you the best holding performance
Q: Is there any maintenance required to a cleat to keep it performing well?
Ans: We would recommend flushing the with fresh water as often are you can.
