Rudder Woes...Part II

[Mike Failmezger]

Thanks for all the advice, everybody. I've got the boat out of the water and I'm ready to make the repairs, but I need just a little bit more advice.Recently, a friend of mine suggested that I remove the bottom rudder mounting bolts and inject West Marine apoxy resin into the holes and let it dry. Then I was told to redrill the holes and replace the bolts. This was suggested in lew of applying the 3m 5200. Does this sound like a plausible suggestion?Thanks,Mike

 

[Wanderer138]

Absolutely

The epoxy prevents the wood core of the transom from absorbing water and rotting. If the core is already wet, you may have to wait a few weeks for it to dry a bit.Tape over the holes on the inside and outside of the transom to keep the epoxy in place until it cures. Leave a small opening at the top of the holes on the outside so you can top up the epoxy level as it soaks into the wood. Use the thinnest epoxy you can find and a catalyst that gives you plenty of working time. The longer the epoxy takes to cure, the deeper into the wood it can soak.The bad news is that the rudder fitting still has to be sealed to keep the water out of the boat.Peter

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

Mike

If you would like to talk with me about repairing your rudder, call Hunter and ask for Gregg Emerson. Get my number and call me. I will tell you thee best way to fix your boat.Crazy Dave Condon