Rudder

Jun 28, 2017
3
Marlow Hunter 340 Crosshaven & Castletownsend
Hi All,
I recently purchased a 340, year 2000.
The rudder is very stiff, I have isolated the steering system components and it is the rudder.
I have an Autohelm installed and am a bit concerned that this very stiff rudder will damage the Autopilot.
Have people come across this issue?
The surveyor, didn't consider it critical, or that it rendered the boat compromised or unseaworthy in anyway; at the time he thought it might be from lack of use, laid-up ashore etc.
I do find it most tiresome, although, of course it does have advantages, i.e being able to leave the helm for a few moments.
I cannot seem to gain any access to lubricate the bearings; I have tried a very small syringe and even a WD50 red pipe, that comes with the cans and all to no avail.
Any suggestions?
 

JamesG161

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Feb 14, 2014
7,815
Hunter 430 Waveland, MS
My rudder bearing don't need lubrication. WD40 is NOT a lubricant.
____
I found a manual adjustment to "tension" the steering. The tensioner is used to take the "steering strain" off the Helm steering wheel. It took me 2 years to discover this on my helm pedestal, since is was located under the fold down cockpit dinette, port side.
______
Too tight... two people to turn wheel...
Too lose... a the rudder wheel will spin wildly.

Jim...

PS: Just a guess.;)
 
Jun 28, 2017
3
Marlow Hunter 340 Crosshaven & Castletownsend
Thanks James,
Yes, I too have the steering brake you mentioned.
However, once I disconnect the steering mechanism from the actual rudder (i.e pry off the connecting rod) the steering if perfectly free - reconnect it and back we go again to muscle building!
I hope others see my post, as I'm fairly sure this is not an isolated experience.
Many thanks again and enjoy your sailing.

Donal
 
Mar 29, 2017
576
Hunter 30t 9805 littlecreek
Ok so probably not the answer you want but bearing supply co local in big city's carry sprockets and chain similar to that ;that is in your post how bout removing and changing gearing maybe doubling big sprocket at wheel or as big as fit and or lowering sprocket at bottom of post