28 Islander rudder bushing replacement

[Keith]

I have a 1978 Islander 28, tiller steering. As the rudder has developed some play I plan to remove the rudder to inspect the rudder shaft and bushing. Does anyone have experiance with replacing the bushing and were these busing could be purchased?Keith

 

[Paddy Cakes]

What bushing?

My 1977 I28 has a bit of that same slop. I once saw a West epoxy system article that described putting a release agent on the stainless shaft & somehow re-glassing portions(top & botom, I suppose) of the rudder shaft interior. I have experimented with cut plastic from liter soda bottles & even mylar shims at both ends with limited success. The silence on this subject is interesting....I love La Paz...spent 3 weeks island hopping up to Loretto last spring.

 

[Neal]

Old shaft new bushing , not the best option

Would suggest not replacing the bushing with stock bushing, unless your shaft shows no wear. Better option would be to mic the shaft and have a machine shop custom make the bushing using the measurements.