Fitting FCS Original Plugs.

How to fit FCS Original Plugs.

You’ will have chosen your preferred fin system. We still prefer the original FCS system above Futures and fit it as standard, but FCS II is gaining in popularity, and Fusion of course is the choice for EPS/Epoxy boards. Here is the useful guide on fin fitment as defined by our factory and these boys should know, they’ve been fitting them for thirty years or more.

We’ve combined all three FCS systems – the method is similar, you just need a variety of different tools. Seabase has a Fin Fitment Loan Scheme – enquire for details. (All you need for one week’s loan – deposit required, terms apply.)

FCS Plugs:

Choose FCS Originals or the cheaper FCS compatible plugs – both are suitable.  Ideal for PU and EPS foam. You need 4 x rail plugs and 2 x centre plugs – for a Thruster Surfboard. For a quad surfboard 8 rail plugs. For a five fin 8 rail plugs and 2 x centre plugs. FCS plugs are added after laminating the board. Measure and mark the plug centres. Drill according to instructions in this video. Remember FCS plugs MUST go through to the deck of the board. Fit carefully, sand and seal.

Using Resins:

When fitting boxes, plugs or stantions, with Polyester Resin, use a slower gel and cure time. Do not use the fastest gel time – too much exotherm will cause the resin surrounding the plug to become brittle. The ideal resin for plug or box fitment is ISO 10X because of its more flexible characteristic, and its resistance to cracking & crazing. Use the recommended glass filler powder; the reinforcement it offers increases water resistance and resists cracking.  Do not use Polyester Resin in EPS foam. Epoxy Resin is ideal for either PU or EPS foam. If using Epoxy Resin – especially for FCS II or Fusion in EPS foam – use Resin Research 200CE with the standard 2100F hardener. Do not necessarily, use a slow hardener UNLESS you have a deep hole to fill. Slow hardeners may drain too easily, and cause voids that require refilling.  In nearly every case, we use the Resin Research 2100F fast hardener. 2100S and 2100X hardeners are used for concentrates of resin, where a fast hardener cause a high temperature en masse, and may crack or craze as a result. Adding Fumed Silica in small quantities to the mix (after catalyst or hardener is added) aids sanding and reduces drainage. FCS recommend the use of their glass powder for a solid, strong fitment. Use it.