Problem with Rudder "drop"

[Vincentc]

I had hoped to post a few pictures describing a successful replacement of the rudder shaft packing for our 43DC 1983. Although the packing removal and replacement went well I discovered a more pressing issue.

I was up close with the port rudder as my son turned the helm back and forth. I noticed, to my surprise and concern that the rudder arm was resting on and rubbing against copper the hydraulic steering lines. Not only was it rubbing against, but it had significantly indented the copper tubing.

I checked the port rudder arm and discovered that it had also dropped but was rubbing against and had gouged the plywood below the arm. Please note the photos of the both the port and stbd rudder arms.

I am at a loss as to the cause and solution to this problem. I will appreciate any words of explanation or advice you might kindly share.

 

[Toolsntoys]

On my boat the locking collar is below the steering arm.

 

[Toolsntoys]

I just took Mine apart yesterday and will reassemble next weekend

 

[Vincentc]

Thanks for the comment regarding the locking collar. If it were below that would provide significant clearance.

When disassembled, I suppose you count on the rudders not to slide down. With the boat afloat that could be a problem.

Regards,

Vincent

 

[Top Hatt Craig]

Ours look to be correct on our '78 43DC. Best, Craig

 

[Vincentc]

Craig,
Many thanks for picturing what is hopefully a simple solution.
I am impressed with the cleanliness of your boat.
Regards,
Vincent

 

[Top Hatt Craig]

Craig,Many thanks for picturing what is hopefully a simple solution.I am impressed with the cleanliness of your boat.Regards,Vincent

You're very welcome, I was in there recently working on our rudder angle indicator and If there's anything I can add to this thread, while having wifey crank the steering stop to stop while testing the angle indicator, I was a bit taken back by the Adam's Family like sound effects (loud squeaks) coming from all the pivot pins. Even though they are dissimilar metals and shouldn't wear each other, the squeaks were unacceptable now that I had heard them. Pulling the pins and slathering them with grease took care of it. I think it's recommended maintenance that had yet to be done.

 

[Toolsntoys]

Top hatt. What did you use to clean the bronze steering part? Your pic got me envious

 

[Top Hatt Craig]

Top hatt. What did you use to clean the bronze steering part? Your pic got me envious

Uh.. wish I could take credit for any pleasing appearances but in the eleven months we've owned the boat I haven't actually touched those, so all I can say is I wish the rest of the metalwork looked as nice.We're told our boat has been in the same covered slip since '78 on the San Joaquin Delta, out of reach of salt air so maybe that's why they still look good. I did get our holding tank flange to clean up considerably using a cheapo wire wheel in a drill when I had it apart. Regards, Craig

 

[Toolsntoys]

Well any how I'm impressed with how nice it looks. I'm sure your a proud owner