OK, so new gorgeous carbon Taaroa replacing my Slingshot. The Taaroa deep Tuttle head features a small flange which lands against the deck. Head goes VERY easily into the foil-ready box - even more easily that the Slingshot head. Nothing like the struggle you see people with Starboards go through to wiggle the head into the box - just slips right in. Once the bolts are snugged down the fit seems firm enough but I'm worried a bit. Does this mean that instead of the tapers supporting the load it's likely really the deck flange? Haven't take it onto the water yet but would like to this weekend. Do I need to get the initial fit tighter do you think?

Add a layer of epoxy to both sides, sand lightly to achieve a snug fit.

I think you'll be fine, thats what the flange is for. If you're worried, before doing anything which will permanently alter the tuttlehead, try some aluminum tape on the tuttlehead.

Problem with alu duct tape is it's thickness, which you cannot tune. Great for sealing or taking up wide spaces, but cannot be sanded for final fit.

I agree with White. It is probably fine.

I have a i76 with flange. It goes in very easily, and snugs up against the bottom of the board nice and tight. No movement in use.

At home I have a LP with flange. It goes in much harder, but still goes in fully and snugs up against the bottom of the board nice and tight. No movement in use.

Flanges solve a lot of problems. They are a good idea. No need to shim.

Thanks guys - I got in touch with the builder who thought it was ok too but in case I was nervous recommended couple of layers of spray-primer which is easy to apply evenly and easy to sand if need be. Rustoleum makes a filler-primer but I didn't think I needed that much help. Looks fine now and fits much more snugly.