taking removable fin systems to the next level

Under-the-glass

Boxes are installed underneath the glass for strength, and a watertight installation and extra layers of glass are added over the boxes for additional strength.

Adjustability

The system features 3/8" of adjustment, enabling the fine-tuning of the fins. Adjusting fins can have a massive impact on performance.

Strength

Everything about the design of the system was geared towards strength. It starts with an elliptical shape that provides maximum stability and load dissipation.

Easy Install

The box has a unique dam shape that simplifies installation by allowing the glass to drape over the box effortlessly. Utilizes a single rout install method.

FAQ

Answers to the frequently asked questions.

You may have questions about the system that you have not yet found answers to. We have a Frequently Asked Questions section below to help get you started! Contact us if you have unanswered questions.

Do dual tab fins work in the GB24 box?

All dual tab fins are fully compatible with the GB24 fin system and will work without modification!

Can the GB24 box be installed in EPS boards?

The GB24 system is fully compatible with EPS foam and can be installed using an epoxy resin. However, care should be taken to ensure that the epoxy resin does not generate too much heat that could melt the EPS foam.

Minimum thickness required to install a GB24 box?

The routed depth of the hole for installing a GB24 box is approximately 5/8" (16mm) at the point of installation. It is advisable to have at least 1/8" (3mm) of foam below the bottom of the box at the shallowest end. This means the board needs to be a minimum of 3/4" (19mm) thick at the point of installation.

What cant angles are avialable in the GB24 boxes?

Currently, three different cant angles are available - 4º, 6º, and 8º. In addition, there is a dedicated center box with 0º of cant.

Is sanding required before installing a box?

GB24 boxes are installed under the glass, so no sanding is required. If a box is being retrofitted to an existing board, then the area where the box will be installed will need to be sanded down to allow a couple of layers of glass to be placed over the installed box.

How tight do the screws need to be?

The grub screws need not be overtightened to have a secure fit. All GB24 fins have a recess in their bases into which the grub screws tighten, so all that is needed is for the screws to be snug with enough pressure to lock the fin into the box. The screws should be checked periodically as they tend to loosen slightly under load when the boxes are new.

Over-tightening the screws can cause them to strip the plastic and is unnecessary for a secure fit.

Do FUTURES fins work in a GB24 box?

Futures fins do not fit in a GB24 box as their base is much longer than the box slot.

How is a GB24 system installed?

The GB24 system is installed underneath the glass when the surfboard is laminated. First, the holes for the boxes are routed, and the boxes are pre-glued into the routed cavity. Finally, the lamination begins immediately, with the cloth draped over the boxes. For more details on the installation process, visit this site's INSTALL Details.
The boxes can be installed after the board has been laminated, but they will still need to be capped with glass to complete the installation. This is most commonly done when a board is colored and you do not want the color to be over the boxes.

How does the GB24 system deal with fin cant?

GB24 is a fixed system, so the cant angle is built into the box slot. We currently offer three (3) different cant angles - 4º, 6º, and 8º- plus a dedicated center box. Once the boxes have been installed in the surfboard, the cant angle cannot be changed.

How is the cant angle indicated in a GB24 box?

The box has three locations for identifying the cant angle - the underside, the bottom of the slot, and the rail side of the dam close to the slot. The marking on the dam is only present during the installation process. Once the dam is sanded down, it will disappear.

Does the system have a dedicated center box?

The system has a dedicated center box with 0º cant that features opposing screws, as is commonly found in other systems. This center box is identical in shape to the side boxes, so there are no special considerations for routing and installing the box. The LAYOUT Guides center line must be used when positioning the box.

Does the system use a specialized installation jig?

The system has a complete routing system consisting of a router jig, router bit, layout guide, router base, trim spacer, hex key, and a depth gauge for setting the router bit depth. The jig is only used to rout the holes. We DO NOT provide a router as part of the installation kit. This is something the builder needs to provide. We recommend using a trim router as they are inexpensive and easy to handle. The system is tailored to the Makita XTR01Z cordless or RT0701C wired trim routers. However, any router can be used with the routing system if it can accommodate a 1/4" shank router bit.

Do you have to use the trim spacer?

The TRIM SPACER is provided as a convenience for removing excess dam material after installing the box. Its use is entirely optional. If preferred, the dam can be sanded down. If so, a rough-grit sanding disc should be utilized, and the sander should be run at low RPM. This reduces the chances of the plastic melting.
If you use the TRIM SPACER, read how it is used. In particular, check the router bit depth before removing dam material.

Still need help?

If you want more personalized help, you can contact us with questions.

Contact Form

GB24 - evolution of a fin system

GB24 takes the GEARBOX fin system to the next level, adding simplicity, adjustability, strength, and ease of installation.

SYSTEM
INFO
GENERAL

+61 2 4339 9580 SANDED Australia

+1 808 639 5303 GEARBOX Hawai'i

Privacy Policy

© 2024-[2099] Mair Designs LLC. All rights reserved.