Seal Rudder Shaft?

[John Nantz]

Couple questions:On a Hunter 35, 1988, the rudder shaft is open at the top and exposed to water and dirt that can build up inside. Question #1: Should I seal the top of the shaft by, say, squirting some foam in it? All it would take is some foam near the top where the quadrant attaches.Question #2: Where the shaft enters the top of the rudder it looks like there is a potential for water to get inside. Is it permissible to put a bead of epoxy around the joint? I'm concerned about causing oxygen deprivation.Question #3: Not related to the above; should the rudder shaft be "grounded" to the rest of the boat?

 

[Al Walker]

1 & 2

John, Sorry I have a two question limit! I'm Just kidding! I'm not familiar with rudder instillation so I don't know the answer to question #3To answer #1, It is best to fill to shaft with a waterproof material. We presently use 20 pound foam to fill them. The problem with doing it after the fact if water in your tube. Polyurethane foam is extremely water sensitive. Just a small ammoumt of moisture can make it turn to mush. You may wind up with a big mees on your hands. You might want to try cleaning the inside of the shaft with a rag, then foaming. Question #2 It would be a good idea to even rout out the area and seal it with epoxy or 5200. Thanks for your questions. Sincerely,Al Walker