semi seized rudder bearings

[tom fitzpatrick]

1998 - Bavaria 47 ..rudder bearings replaced 2 yrs ago and wheel has now become v stiff to turn. Any suggestions to solve this problem??

 

[robgs]

rudder

My Vision 40 had very stiff steering from new. The rudder bearings were inspected and replaced by the dealer under warranty. The problem with the original lower bearing was debris (metal filings) introduced during factory assembly imbedded in the inner surface of the lower self aligning bearing. This caused binding against the rudder shaft surface. The replacement bearing has a race of rollers that ride against the rudder shaft unlike the original bearing which was just a smooth bore in the plastic bearing-teflon or nylon I think. The roller bearing design would probably solve your problem.

Rob

 

[tom fitzpatrick]

My Vision 40 had very stiff steering from new. The rudder bearings were inspected and replaced by the dealer under warranty. The problem with the original lower bearing was debris (metal filings) introduced during factory assembly imbedded in the inner surface of the lower self aligning bearing. This caused binding against the rudder shaft surface. The replacement bearing has a race of rollers that ride against the rudder shaft unlike the original bearing which was just a smooth bore in the plastic bearing-teflon or nylon I think. The roller bearing design would probably solve your problem.

Rob

hi Rock
Thanks for reply. I had the rudder dropped (with difficulty) and found the problem was nowxidisation on the rudder post and was sorted out by sanding.wheel is now light and smooth.
Regards Tom.