Rudder question

[Gary]

I have the rudder off our boat for sanding and painting. There is quite a bit of wear to the hole where the bolt goes through. (this of course is the bolt which attaches the rudder to the metal housing) This is allowing some "slap" which is not critical nor dangerous, but if allowed to continue will cause considerable damage to the rudder. Have any of you dealt with this problem, and if so how did you fix it??Thanx in advance,Gary

 

[Chuck]

Bushings

You should have 2 flat plastic bushings, 1 on either side of the rudderinside the rudder housing, then eithera hubbed plastic/neoprene bushing or a grommet to go through the hole in the housing. There should be a sleeve that the bolt goes through inside the rudder as well.

 

[Gary]

Missing parts

I seem to have none of things you describe with the exception of what appears to be a sleeve through the hole.I suspected that things were missing when I took it apart. Do you suppose Hunter would have the parts in question?Thanx again,Gary

 

[Chuck]

Rudder parts

I got the bushings at a marine supply store. Hunter may well have the parts.Becareful not to overtighten that swing bolt tthrough the rudder housing.You'll be seriously bummin' if you break it. $$$$$

 

[Wanderer138]

Epoxy in a new bushing

If the hole is really big and out of round, you may want to drill it out and epoxy in a metal bushing. JB Weld epoxy is really good for this sort of thing. Of course, now you'll have to keep the bushing lubricated inside. Some beeswax or SailKote should do the trick. Good luck.PeterH23 "Raven"