Installing Bronze Rudder Arm on Rudderstock

[Bob]

Hello, All... I am in the process of installing a Raytheon ST5000+ (below deck) autopilot on our 2000 Catalina 36. So far, so good with the electronics part. However, per Raytheon's suggestion, I have decided to install an auxiliary bronze tiller arm on the rudderstock, rather then attaching the hydraulic ram to the cable wheel. I ordered and received the tiller arm from Edson.Installing the arm necessitates drilling a hole (about 5/16" or so) all the way thru the rudderstock, so that the tiller arm unit is thru-bolted (as well as using the 4 peripheral bolts.) I am pretty handy, but the rudderstock is a substantial hunk of steel and the job seems just a wee bit intimidating.Besides the advice of "have a yard do it...” does anyone have any suggestions about the best way to approach this task...and the proper tools to use, including drill bits, jigs, etc? There is a collar on the tiller arm that appears to be able to serve in keeping the bit properly aligned, but that may not be the best approach. I am a good wood-worker, but have limited experience with "heavy metal."Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks.Bob GauvreauC-36, "Purrrfect", #1929San Francisco, CA

 

[Ron]

Woodworker or Ironworker?

Just from experience, sometimes the school of hard knocks, drilling through a round object and staying in the center is tough.I have seen clamps that will keep the bit centered. Maybe you could rent one. Also the trick to drilling in stainless steel is "a sharp bit, pilot hole, a lot of pressure, oil, and slow turning speed". I learned this the hard way!! I would just hate to replace the bar stock!

 

[Keith]

Rudder stock

You will not have any problems in drilling the hole in your rudder stock. Just center punch where you want the hole to go, then start with a smaller bit such as a 3/16" then move up. If you try to do it with the large bit with out starting with a smaller bit you will have your hands full. I would drill one side, place a bolt through that side, then center punch the other side so that both sides line up. You must use bits made for stainless steel but they can be purchased almost anywhere for under $10. I have drilled several shafts and it is not that big a deal. Just do it!