Rudder Bearings

[Tom Pfleeger]

I have a 1999 H310 that I purchased new in July 2000. Recently I have noticed play in the steering. The only thing I could find wrong is that there is play in the rudder tube. I can push the rudder post down 1/4 to 1/2" it then pops back up. There is also horizotal play of about 1/4". The hunter dealer has new boats in the marina so I checked them and there is no play in the rudder tube. Should the bearings be degrading this quickly? Is this a warranty issue since the bearings are glassed into the hull?

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

If the Rudder Post ...................

......... can be pushed down and then pops back up, something is definitely wrong. Just had the pleasure of disassembling and removing the rudder on our '99 H310 in order to epoxy it. The rudder is held firmly in place by an aluminum yoke with two bolts for a friction fit and one bolt right through it ......... a very solid connection. I would recommend removing the cockpit sole in order to expose the rudder yoke.Good Luck,s/v Island Hunter