Rudder replacement

[Dubo]

I had the misfortune of hearing some banging under the hull. Thinking it was a mermaid I peeked over the side and was stunned to see a rudder blade floating by. Turns out it was mine. Unfortunately there is only a stub (12 ") left for the post so a new rudder is in my future and a $1600+ (foss) bill.

My question has to do with rudder replacement and if it is doable without any special tools? I assume something will need to be repacked but have not had a chance to pock around. Does anyone have any caveats or steps to follow to get this right? Any good links?

TIA

 

[Ed Schenck]

You needed to mention that your H31 is an '87. Steve Dion had an '85 so may be of some help if he isn't partying somewhere. My own rudder just turns in the glass, no real bearing. But it does have a stuffing box.

Mine came out easily. There is a collar that rides on a marble-like surface with a bolt through it. Then the radial wheel which requires removing the cables, a bolt through, and then splits with two other bolts. I am sure yours is different but it really is pretty easy. Unless you have serious corrosion.