Rudder Repair

[Dave Teal]

The rudder on my 1987 Hunter 31 has developed a vertical crack extending about 6 to 8" from the entry point of the rudder post. I intend to glass in a layer fiberglass cloth, wrapping the rudder from one side to the other. The rudder surface appears to be somewhat different from normal gelcoat. Is a special resin or expoxy required?

 

[Colin]

Get an expert.

Unless you are really qualified to perform such repairs I would let an expert perform the work you talk about.This is a structural repair on a part of the boat that sees exceedingly high loads, and in my opinion should only be attemped by someone who really knows what they are doing.Spend the money, then go sailing without the worry of your rudder failing on you at the worst time possible!!!

 

[Tom Hadoulias]

Call Foss Foam...

They made most all of the rudders for Hunters. The problem you describe is relatively common. The rudders are typically filled with a cellular foam that will not absorb water beneath a plastic liner that will sometimes split. This can be repaired easily if the rest of the rudder is in good shape. Keep in mind that a new rudder costs about $1,000 to $1,200 so if the repair bill gets to high you may want to consider a replacement from Foss. They are really nice people and can be contacted at via the link below.Tom HadouliasS/V Lite Chop

 

[Barry]

Your Rudder

The original rudder is made of polyester resin and cloth. It can be repaired with the same material or epoxy. If it appears different it may have been fixed or epoxy coated at some time. If you think there may be epoxy on it use epoxy for the repairs. Try to determine if there is any water in it by drilling a few holes.It costs over $100 to ship the rudder (one way) from Foss in Florida to you. A frequent problem with these rudders is the weld breaks inside right about where your crack is. Although it can be repaired Foss will suggest you get a new one. I'm not sure what's inside by new one or of they copied the original design. I'd ask and pay a few buck extra to beef it up.If it were mine I'd open up a large area on one side and try to inspect the post and welded area. Some time ago I posted a picture of the post design with all the foam and glass gone. I still have my old post and can get pictures or measurement of that area if necessary. (mine was from an early h34, same design)It common and nothin a sh_t load of money won't fix.Barry

 

[Barry]

Found Link to Rudder Post Pictures

Below is a link to rudder post picture I posted here

 

[Dave Teal]

Response from Foss Foam and Gougeon Bros.

I got responses from both Foss Foam (Bob Walker) and Gougen Bros (West System). Bob said polyester or epoxy can be used, and "Make sure the prep is good." He said nothing, pro or con, about the wisdom of the repair method.Gougen people were quite helpful about how to make the repair.If you see an item in the newspaper about a H31 drifting over Niagra Falls, you'll know my repair didn't hold up! LOL