Jeanneau SO32 Twin Rudder Squeaking

[Stoshak]

The rudder mechanism is infested with delrin bearings which squeak and grind terribly. Not apparent when motoring, but a bit intrusive when sailing.
Can anything be done short of stripping the whole nine yards and regreasing?

 

[bobgoode]

Try the simple things first ( if not already done so )
Remove cover from the aft cabin which hides the pedastal mechanism. Grease everything in sight..no need to dismantle. This should be an annual job.

If that don't work..

 

[JohnP]

I think you will find all Jeanneaus have this problem. I remember the test reports for the 37 commenting on stiff steering. Our 37 steering needs greasing as bobbobbin`s recommendation at least twice a season. For the first two years we thought it was at the pedestal/wheel but then traced the noise to the pulley wheels below the pedestal.

 

[FullCircle]

I grease mine each year and have had no issues in 3 seasons.
You can releive any tension in the system by loosening an retightening the rudder stock clamp bolts, but be careful not to disturb the alignment of the twin rudders.



One of the few systems that works like it should.