Pearson 30 Rudder Repair

[TimC]

I need to drop the rudder on my Pearson 30 to inspect/replace the bearings and other parts that might be causing some play in the rudder. I read on the web that the rudder of a Pearson 26 cannot be removed when the boat is on stands unless a hole is dug below the rudder. Reportedly, the P26 rudder was easily removed when the boat was in a cradle. Is the P30 the same? I cannot dig a hole in the marina's asphalt. Does any know if the rudder of a Pearson 30 can be removed when the boat is on stands?Thanks.

 

[ed grogan]

rudder removal

I have done that 2 times over the last 25 yrs. I 'believe that I dug any hole for the rudder.You could try it though. I would recommend 2 people. One above and one below as the rudder is heavy. If you need more height you could get it by raising up the jackstands, but i don't think you will need it.. You have to remove the old bushings and clean-sand lightly the inner surface of the rudder shaft and then use epoxy-I used West with the fibers to set the bushings. Insert the rudder before the west dries to set the bushings properly. Be sure to use the top washer also. That is a little flat one-no glue on that one. Sometimes the rudder cap has play it it. Don't try to tighten the long bolt to take up this play here. I think that I used stainless tape. I believe I used a few inches-try this ahead of time on the ground brfore you use the glue. You may have to do this a few times to get the correct fit and tightness- and just tightened it with the small bolt at the rear of the cap. The long bolt that goes through the cap is to prevent the rudder from dropping out of the boat.good luck. Pretty easy job if you don"t have wheel steering.