So here is what I am thinking

[JungleJetJock]

I have been messing with the rudder on my H260 because it is hard to put down. I really wish they wouldn't have made the damn thing so buoyant. I was thinking of fixing the problem one of two ways1) Drill into the core and add some weight near the end then seal it off. This may take a lot of weight though given how well this thing floats.2) Drill a hole for a securing pin (Like Ida Sailor sells) and then leave it down all the time. This will of course cause slime to start growing on the rudder surface but allow it to be raised when pulled.I am kind of leaning towards option 2. Have any of you all tried anything to help solve this problem? I know it is a common one with the boat. Any input is welcome.Happy sailing,Jason

 

[Terry Cox]

Hi Jason, absent any replies here...

if it were my boat I would contact Hunter Marine Customer Service and ask for their recommendations.Terry.

 

[George]

H260 rudder

You came to the right place. No need to do the "One - Footed Flamingo Tango".There is a two part solution to this problem. It involves increasing the purchase of the downhaul line from 2:1 to 4:1 by installing two micro-blocks on the line. Next, you install the CL257 Auto-Release Racing Mini cleat which locks down the rudder while still allowing it to flip-up if it hits the bottom or a solid obstacle in the water.I've been using this method for two seasons now and I continue to be amazed how well this simple modification works.There is a lot of information on the rudder at this link:http://kobernus.com/hunter260/rudder/rudder.htmlMore questions contact me.

 

[HAL]

RUDDER

Remove end of line from uphaul hole in rudder. Replace with another line. Downhaul line runs out top of rudder post to block on push pit rail, then down to block hooked to top of rudder post, then free end of line into cockpit. You now can sit on locker seat facing aft and easily bob the rudder into the down position, even in rough weather. Tie off as usual. No weight added, so you must bob. Our rudder has pin. We always leave rudder up on mooring.

 

[ruedi ross]

Ida Sailer rudder

I have the Ida Sailer rudder and have no problem raising and lowering it with the original 2 to 1 system. It has neutral bouyancy and won't become waterlogged. I would recommend it and keep your original for a spare. Although I have never had a problem, 260's are notorious for breaking the rudder. I would not recommend drilling holes in the original to add weight. This is asking for water intrusion problems with the foam core. The Ida Sailer rudder is solid plastic and doesn't have the water intrusion problems that the original does.Georges suggestion for the releasing clam cleat is a good one and I have it on my 260. Works great and has worked for me more than once.