23.5 Rudder Gasket Blues

[John]

Last season, I developed a problem with the 2 red rudder gasket that nest's between the rudder, and it's aluminium housing...... it tore. Where can I find a replacement? Are there better alternative materials that won't decay as quickly?

 

[Bob Schmit]

Red Gasket

I had to replace mine also on a H26, I think they aren't really setup to be raised and lowered as often as I was doing it-everytime I came back to the slip I would raise it out of the water so I wouldn't have to clean it. I have since repaired the rudder (parts from the Hunter parts dept after trying to find similar material at auto parts store...)and painted it with a white bottom paint and just leave the stinker in the water till haul out.As far as something better, don't think there is.Hope this helps a little.

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

Gasket

I am assuming that you speak of the gasket material that is glued ot the inside of the rudder housing. Hunter now uses white delrin plastic large washers. This might be of consideration but you will need to advise if you have the locking tension type handle on the side of the rudder housing.Crazy Dave Condon

 

[Dale Wile]

ACE is the place!

I recently retired from 15 years managing an ACE Hardware Store. We stocked the red rubber sheeting which is an exact replacement for the material used in the rudder housing of the H-23.5. I replace the gaskets in my boat two years ago, with factory-like results. ACE does not carry the material in their warehouses, but the stores can order it direct-ship. We had a display rack that included two thicknesses of the red rubber, plus white rubber and several other rubber and vinel products. These items sold very well. If your ACE store does not have the display, suggest they order it. It is always featured at the annual ACE buying shows for ACE store owners.Dale Wiles/v GrandechildSandpoint, Idaho