rudder post slop

[sailorich]

Hi everyone, I have a 1971 Pearson 26 in very good shape. last season I noticed a slight clunk in the tiller when maintaining course. Whenever I head up or down I can feel it.
There are no bearings that I can see, just a rudder post inserted through a gudgeon tube
held in place in the cockpit by a ring with a bolt. How can I fatten up the rudder post? Are there aftermarket bearings that can be inserted top and bottom? Thanks for any help.

 

[shorty]

check w/D&R Marine

http://www.drmarine.com/ they have old pearson molds, parts etc. Make sure the rudder is not loose on the post, that was my problem, a not uncommon one on boats this age. I looked, to me, like the rudder post was loose in the thru-hull bushing. I replaced rudder. All better now.

 

[sailorich]

http://www.drmarine.com/ they have old pearson molds, parts etc. Make sure the rudder is not loose on the post, that was my problem, a not uncommon one on boats this age. I looked, to me, like the rudder post was loose in the thru-hull bushing. I replaced rudder. All better now.

Wow thanks alot. I went to the site and they have rudder bushings! My rudder is firmly attached to the post so the bushings will solve the problem.

 

[bffatcat]

Rudder P26

When you get the problem you described it means the rudder post is loose in the tube. There are no gudgeons on a P26 spade rudder. It means 2 things 1. the bushings are worn and have to be replaced with parts available at D&R marine or 2. as was the case on my boat, The post was worn down and had to be repaired with a fiberglass wrap around the tube to get it to fit snugly.
Its not to big a job. The rudder weights 85lbs. Your going to have to dig a
pit to get the post clear of the tube when you drop it down.

 

[aankers]

Re: Rudder P26

Or take out the rudder while it is on the lift.