Bent rudder post

[john]

I hit a submerged log and it hit my rudder, it seems like it bent it back slightly causing it to rub against the hull when admidship. The boat is a 1982, and I dont think the rudder is ever been taken off, what is involved in removal of it, any bushings that I should replace while I have it out?, Is it possable to straighten it?

 

[Ray Evans]

I had a similar problem with my rudder post. I asked the marina yard boss about it and he said if the bend is minor (usually is!) then using a come-along will work. I padded the rudder near the hull and connected the other end to a secure spot (in my case the boat was on the cradle). If you crank up on the lever slowly checking to make sure the rudder is OK, (padded well),you will be able to pull the rudder back down to its original position. Check boat to be sure rudder packing gland is OK and you are all set!Lots of Luck!

 

[Kevin]

Been there, done that!

Hey there,I have a 93 c30 and have just replaced my rudder. Did the same as you, so maybe I can help...Firstly, there is not much involved in removing the old rudder. There is a nylon bushing top and bottom, and I had one bolt through the post at the quadrant.Secondly, you cannot! really, bend a post straight again. You might take some of the bend out of the post, but you'll wind up doing damage to your tube, or the rudder core in the process. If you wish to try, get a come-a-long and strap it to the keel. block the rudder into position and crank away until you've reached a point where you think you'l be happy with the results... If you notice any slop in the tube afterwards, buy a small sheet of drafting film and cut two strips about 2"x12". Insert them on opposite sides of the post from the bottom up (that's where the slop will be).If that's not to your liking, a new rudder for my boat was $1000.00-- I also had and new glass shim installed to reduce slop. All is good now... Hope this helps, and sorry for the bad news..Kev