H-26 Waterline - Aluminum Rudder Head

[BrianW]

A question for H-26 owners: Is the bottom of the aluminum rudder head (aluminum plates) normally completely above the waterline while the boat is moored? How about while sailing? My current rudder head is 2 to 3 inches below the waterline while moored. Your answers will help me determine how I need to balance my boat with ballast. Thanks, BrianW

 

[alan]

Mine is touching the water docked.

Sailing usually a few inches into the water. What do u have at the rear? alan

 

[BrianW]

Currently 2 Batteries & 13-Gallon Fuel Tank...

I currently have 2 batteries aft of the main berth, a 12-gallon fuel tank in the fuel locker and a 2-stroke 9.9 Johnson outboard. BrianW

 

[MikeH]

Same as Alan

At dock my 260 rests with the rudder head just out of the water, but when I'm under way with a couple of people in the cockpit, or at least me, the head is submerged a couple of inches. I don't think my head is aluminum though. The boat was in salt water for 5 years before I brought it to Lake Erie, and there's very little corrosion back there. I think mine's stainless.Mike

 

[MABell]

Brian, watch for pitting on those plates

There was a post not long ago about the plates being eaten by electrolysis. I recall one of the posts indicated he connected a "fish" zinc to his compression post and those plates (of course, this is a local electrical problem – but it can happen). The plates on my H26 are somewhat pitted at the bottom. I just installed a small zinc on them. Will test this summer.I would suggest stowing anything heavy towards the bow.

 

[BrianW]

Those Corroded Plates Were Mine

I'm replacing my corroded rudder head and trying NOT to repeat history. Thanks, BrianW