Rudder Float

[Eric Nelson]

Hello gang!I am looking for anybody who has experience with their rudder rubbing on the hull as it sweeps left and right. I believe that the rudder wants to float and there is nothing to hold the rudderpost from moving up. I can see a nylon bushing that keeps the post from slipping DOWN, but I can also see that the rudder has been rubbing on the hull just above the rudder in the midship position. Any Ideas??

 

[Edward Kennedy]

Rubing Rudder

I had the same problem. My solution, get a piece of thick plastic approx. 4 inches square. I used 1/2 inth thick nylon, but polyethylene (small plastic kitchen cutting board) would do well. Cut a u shaped hole in it so it fits around the rudder shaft and mount it on the bottom of the upper shelf. The last thing needed is a collar to clamp around the rudder shaft below the plastic board. I bought a large propeller shaft zinc, clamped it around the rudder shaft, and the problem was solved.

 

[J. Tesoriero]

My solution

My solution to the rudder "floating" and rubbing against the hull problem, was to make a gasket out of plastic material. I used # 2 plastic from the lid of a large spackle container. I cut a 4-5 inch circle with a center hole the diameter of the rudder shaft. I made a radial cut and by bending the "donut", got the gasket to fit between the top of the rudder and the hull. Each spring before the boat goes in the water, I spread some waterproof grease on both sides of the gasket using a wooden blade. This reduces the friction, makes steering easier and the plastic gasket has lasted five seasons so far.