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Tips for Using
Both Versa & Gamut
Be gentle with your system. There are multiple moving parts that can get lost or broken if handled roughly. Clean your system after each use and store the components in a designated storage bag/container. Consider having a backup paddle on-hand. Share these tips with your team, if applicable.
The Versa or Gamut are difficult to remove from the clevis fork, by design. They may require a very firm tug to remove. You can consider taking a metal file to the v-shaped metal plates inside the clevis fork and filing them slightly. Be very careful because if you file it too much, the steel pin that holds the Versa or Gamut will slip out too easily from the clevis fork while you’re paddling. Better too tight than too loose.
If you find the clevis fork raises up on your support post as you’re paddling, try to use a slight downward pressure and/or gravity with your hands during the push-pull of the paddle stroke. If you’re doing it correctly, the clevis fork should not lift up, only turn about the support post. Consider adding a tether to avoid losing the clevis fork.
Occasionally the epoxy seal that holds components together may break. You can use a suitable epoxy from a local hardware store to reconnect them. Allow time to dry.
Versa Paddle System
Practice using the thumb pin to change the angle of Versa. Do this on dry land. Lift the left shaft up a bit to take the pressure off the thumb pin in its slot so that it can be adjusted. Pull back toward the right on the button to retract it. Also practice using the three push pins on each shaft to adjust the length of the paddle shafts.
For entering and exiting your kayak, simply flip the hinged mount up. Avoid putting your body weight on the mount as you may damage the stabilization brackets, hinge plate and/or mount.
We’ve found that it’s easiest, if you are able, to use the paddle straight and off the mount upon entering and exiting the water. Straight mode and on the mount works well in open water conditions where you may have choppy water. Angled and on the mount works well when the water is very calm as it minimizes the likelihood of the paddle skipping on the water during strokes. This brief video clip shows how to maximize your power with each stroke.
The stainless-steel pin that connects Versa’s central shaft should be tight when you receive it. If it loosens over time, just open up the angled component to access a hole that contains a set pin. Use a small 1/8" Allen Wrench to tighten the set pin by turning to the right. See our YouTube channel for a video demo.
Both Versa paddle shafts contain a small amount of foam to aid in flotation, however, it occasionally it will not be enough to hold the weight of the paddle. We recommend adding additional spray foam in each shaft, being careful not to extend the foam past the first shaft hole, or even adding pool noodles to the shafts.
Gamut Paddle Holder System
The “spaceship” piece of your Gamut may be a little tight when inserted in the clevis fork. It will loosen over time. If desired, however, you can add a small amount of lubricant (e.g., WD-40) or even lightly sand/buff the area of the spaceship around the steel pin to create a narrower fit.
If you haven’t already purchased them, we recommend using the RotoGrip SnapNStraps to keep the paddle securely in place as it can occasionally pop loose from the RotoGrips during paddling.
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