Loose Rudder on a C-22

[Johnny Henson]

As a new owner of an older C-22, I have a question about the rudder. There is at least 2-3 inches of "play" in rudder. Is this normal? The tiller is tight where it is attached to the rudder, but the rudder seems to be loose where it is attached to the transom. It seems as if a bushing is missing. I do not have a manual showing or explaining how to service the rudder, and I have not tried to remove the rudder. Should the grudgeon be replaced periodically; and can this be done while in the water?I will appreciate your comments.Johnny Henson

 

[Brad Williams]

2 - 3 inches of play?

It may feel like that --- but there isn't anywhere for that to happen. When you move the tiller, the rudder moves, it's about that simple, you don't have any play there.What you are probably feeling is loosness between gudgeons and pintels (sp)....but it isn't very much and underway with slight pressure on the rudder itself, you shouldn't feel it at all while steering. Perhaps you are complaining about the tiller/rudder not holding it's course if you let go of the tiller. With gudgeons/pintels, that's going to happen -- I don't think switching out the gudgeons would help much. A "tiller tamer" of some sort might be what you are looking for.I think I remember the lower gudgeon on the 22 being just above water line, so yes, you could change them while the boat is in the water. It may be a little tricky getting access from the inside of the transom, but I don't really think you've got a problem that requires new gudgeons.I know that running the boat aground can jam the rudder, causing it to kick up and bending (or worse) the gudgeon. This can create an area for leakage and create structural concerns, but I don't see even this as "play" (unless something were seriously broken and you'd see that).Good luck,Brad

 

[john renfro]

slop

hello johnny, in your question you speak of "GUDGEON " not " GUDGEONS "and "BUSHING" not "BUSHINGS". do you have two gudgeons and pintles holding the rudder on the transom ?john

 

[shannon]

solution

My boat had the same problem. The lower gudgeon needs to be replaced.The old gudgeon had a bushing that you are missing. Catalina has made an improve d gudgeon that is all one piece(no bushing). It is also made heavier, and will stand up better over time. Plus for around $15 it's a bargain. It won't be easy to change out as the quarters are a little cramped. Good luck!