Rudder post leak

[ewenjo]

Recently observed water in excess under the floorboards of my First 310. Tracked it to the rudder post sleeve. It appears that the sleeve is made of polyurethane and is clamped in two places, the lower clamp fixes the sleeve to the fiberglass well in the hull; the upper clamp tightens around the rudder post. Water was "squirting out through the top connection. When tightened too much it hindered the steering motion tending to rotate the sleeve.( not a good thing) Also I observed that the top of the sleeve is below the water line when sailing under power, (back end squats in the water) Has any one else had this problem? Is there a grease packing that should be installed? Or simply pack the sleeve with grease? If so what type should I use? Is ther another fix such as a longer sleeve that would not be under the water line?Thanks for any help/

 

[Tom C.]

lower rudder bearing

Both clamps should be on rudder tube not the rudder post. The bronze lower rudder bearing has probably come loose in the rudder tube. This condition will let water pass between the bearing and the rudder tube.the pressure as the hull moves up and down will force water past the rudder seal.It's not too hard to fix but the rudder must come out.

 

[BlueAce]

Just dealt with this

Had the same problem. Talked to Beneteau customer service, they recommended parts needed to repair.(it took a couple of phone calls - persistence)Ordered parts from Beneteau. Fairly inexpensive, fast shipping... Next haul out, had the boat yard drop the rudder, install replacement parts...Problem is fixed.