Rudder play

[Chuck Graser]

Our 1988 model C-30 has developed play in the rudder stock. You can feel side play when you turn the wheel with your hand on the rudder quadrant. A catch is felt in the steerlng when sailing downwind and correcting for following seas. Any information anyone has about this situation and its correction will be greatly appreciated--before the boat goes in the yard.Chuck COLUMBINE 5153

 

[Allen]

Epoxy

I have the same problem on my C-30, but it's not that big a deal. If you really want to eliminate it, get the West System guide on using epoxy. They have a section dedicated to this issue. Basically, you mix regular epoxy & add some of their thickening hardeners so the epoxy is less like syrup and more like ketchup.With the rudder dropped, thoroughly coat the rudder shaft with mold release wax, reinstall the rudder, and inject the thickened epoxy into the rudder bearing area until it's "filled". Once the epoxy is cured, you'll need to whack the rudder to "break" it from the epoxy. At this point you will have ZERO play in your rudder.Get the guide, it's only $5. There are a few details I left out, but that basically covers the process.Good luck!Allen Schweitzers/v DrambuieC-30 Hull# 632

 

[Parke Davis]

Rudder Play in my Catalina 30 1991

When I bought my boat in March 2000, the surveyor noted that there was considerable play (1/8 inch or a bit more) between the rudder stock & teh bearings. When the boat was out of the water here for teh winter 2000/01, I had the rudder removed & they made & then fitted two new bearings I believe of teflon. One bearing ( essentially a donut about 2 inches in diameter with the hole about 1 1/4) goes on the bottom & one on the top. I know they had some fun fitting them properly but It works fine now & there's no play. I think the whole job for this was about $350 Canadian / $200US but i'm sure that the price I paid here in the winter will have no relationship to whatever you may pay there.

 

[Norm Copp]

Repairing Worn Rudder Post Tubes

I called Catalina and received this fix. Purchase stock drafting film (mylar) .002 or .005 thick from drafting supply shops. Cut the mylar film 1 to 2 inches wide and as long as will fit down the tube. Insert the film working the film strips as far down into the tube as possible. I found that I would insert 3 shims around the tube to make a tight fit and no side play. You have to remove the end cap and nylon washer in order to insert the shims. Be sure to hold the post up before you remove the end cap bolt.