General Oar Maintenance
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It is always good practice to check your oars and boat thoroughly before you hit the water. Any imperfections may result in changes in performance.
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Always wash or rinse oars after use. Dirt, sand and grime can wear the sleeves. If dirt and sand are on sleeve, increased wear will result. If possible keep sleeves off the ground to prevent dirt and sand.
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VERY IMPORTANT. When possible store oars out of direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions. Even at regattas try and keep your oars in the shade.
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Remove handles twice a year and clean.
How to remove handles
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Undo the screws several turns and attempt to pull out handle.
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If the handle can not be pulled out, the screws need to be removed from the oar.
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The locking plate will now be loose inside the shaft and the handle must be removed.
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Using more than one person, twist the handle and pull it out.
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If a rowing handle is still stuck it can be pulled out by using a lasso of rope or webbing and winched out.
How clean your handles & grips
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Sculling handles are best cleaned using all purpose thinners and a rag. Thinners will remove grease and sunscreen and will not hurt the grip material.
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Rowing handles are best cleaned with concentrated sugar soap (TSP - trisodium phosphate for USA) and a scrubbing brush.
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See videos to clean grips.
Cleaning Rowing
Grips
