This is the way the old style (1947-1972) flip up rudder operates. When the rudder is in the latched position and a backward force is exerted against it as in beaching the Sailfish or on encountering a submerged obstruction, the beveled surface of the hinge plate slides on the matching bevel of the latch forcing it down against the head of the carriage bolt. The carriage bolt then exerts a downward force on the spring. When this force is sufficient to depress the spring the latch drops allowing the hinge plate to swing free. The spring tension can be adjusted as desired by tightening or loosening the wing nut. In general the least tension of the spring which will hold the rudder in the latched position while sailing is the best adjustment and will let the rudder flip up without damage when encountering an obstacle. However, on very windy days when you wish to be sure that the rudder stays latched, it can be positively locked in the down position by tightening the wing nut. (Assembly Instructions For Building Your Sailfish Kit, Alcort, 1960).
On the wooden boats the carriage bolt is held straight because it goes through the transom. On the fiberglass boats the bolt is free and slop can develop. Alcort added a plastic tube to help hold the bolt vertical on later boats.
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