How to Take Fins Off a Surfboard

There are usually one to three small fins at the base of a surfboard. These act as stabilizers and keels so that a surfer can control the board. The fins are susceptible to damage, in which case it is often necessary to remove a fin to replace or repair it. This is easily done with a minimum of tools.

Things You'll Need

  • Hex wrenches
  • Cloth towel and small mallet (optional)
  • Lubricant (optional)
  • Rag (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Place the surfboard so the fins are exposed. Placing it on a flat surface like a workbench gives access to the fins.

    • 2

      Brush off the areas around the fins to expose the hex screws locking the fin onto the board.

    • 3

      Remove the hex screws with a hex wrench and pull the fin off the surfboard. If the screws are locked on due to salt erosion or metal lock, spray lube onto a rag, dab it around the hex screws and try the wrench again.