Has anyone used one of the replacement rudder "kits" that are available on the site ? They have a narrow blade, tilt-up 180 deg., come with tiller, etc. We are cruisers so the racing class-rule isn't a problem but does it improve performance (pointing)? Any feedback welcome.
Replacement rudder for 23.5 ?
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The original rudder was built by Foss Foam in Florida. Contact person is Bob Walker.
Ida Rudders are expensive but if you want performance, then I suggesat that route as many have told me they were pleased with the quality and performance.
Crazy Dave
Ida Rudders are expensive but if you want performance, then I suggesat that route as many have told me they were pleased with the quality and performance.
Crazy Dave
Ditto on the Ida Rudder. My OEM rudder broke on my 2003 H240 and I purchased one three years ago. I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
The original rudder is easy and cheap to repair. Grind the leading and trailing edges. Cover with a coulple of layers of mat or cloth to reinforce. A putty from cab o sil and gelcoat can be used to fair everything in. Use a wooden batten to check for fairness. I gelcoated the whole rudder because it wasn't to be painted as it spends most of the time out of the water and they recommend not painting it a dark color because of heat build up. A quart of gelcoat is cheaper than a quart of white bottom paint. Also there was some water in a hollow part because the edges were cracked. Drill a few holes and let drain, rinse out and let dry. It looks good and is now tough as nails. By the way the rudder is a lot easier to raise if you attach a small block to give a 2:1 advantage. Use a rope to attach it where the raising line used to dead end in the rudder. Run the line from the tiller through the block and just tie it off on the side around the shaft of the big wing nut. It still takes some muscle but only about 1/2 as much.
The original rudder in includes foam construciton for strength and light wieght. However, if it remains wet for a long time, then you will have to replace it. I have seen the foam swell and even shrink with deterioation.
However,if it can be saved and there is water in the rudder, first hang it upwards and drill a small weep hole in the bottom to allow water to exit the rudder. Let the rudder dry for a couple of weeks and then plug the weep hole and do your repairs
Crazy Dave Condon
However,if it can be saved and there is water in the rudder, first hang it upwards and drill a small weep hole in the bottom to allow water to exit the rudder. Let the rudder dry for a couple of weeks and then plug the weep hole and do your repairs
Crazy Dave Condon
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