Rudder bracket screws sheared off

[Joe]

I went out to my Catalina 25 today, and found that two of three screws on the lower rudder bracket were sheared off. The middle screw is still there, but the bracket is bent away from the stern where the other screws should be holding it flat. We had a two hour sail a couple of days ago broad reaching in 15-25 knots and 3-5 ft. waves. I guess it must have happened then, but I sure didn't notice it. Has anyone else had this happen?

 

[Kevin]

Yep

I have come up missing (no residue so don't know if they sheared or loosened) lower bolt(s) in the past. I now make checking them a habit before every sail as well as keeping a couple of spares on hand. Use "locking" bolts (with the plasitc insert at the end) but still managed to lose'em.Not sure it makes a difference but I use Edison pedistal stearing. When I settle into a good heading I'll lock it in place, so the rudder may take more of a beating then with a tiller or a free wheel...KevinHerme's - Great Lakes Naval Base (Chicago)'79 Cat '25