Moody 31 - rudder problems

[quaelgeist2]

Recently looked at a Moody S31 (5 years) and would like to buy it. Looks generally pretty good and everything works fine. But...
The surveyor stated now -as sole problem- "beginning delamination of the rudder" and recommended repair or at least regular inspection to watch out for deterioration.

Has anyone got a similar experience with a Moody (maybe even S31) and can share it with me? Just want to get a feeling for it...

thanks
chris

 

[oldsaltoz]

G’day Chris.
I’m sure rudder delamination is not restricted to any particular brand, and at the end of the day will have to fixed should you decide to purchase her.
The good news is that rudder rebuilds are not difficult or as expensive as some engine parts listed here recently.
Delamination in rudder in rudders can be due to poor lay-up in the first place, or bad design allowing too much flexing. You don’t say if you plan to do the repairs yourself; if you do, add a couple of ‘O’ rings under the glass at the top of the rudder it makes a good seal, and check that the tangs for the blade are stiff enough to prevent flexing, they should be welded horizontally for best performance.

Soavagoodweekend. Old Salt Oz……

 

[steffen]

Hi Chris,
Five years is rather short for delamination so it will porbably need replacement ion next few years. I dont know how good a DIY you are with epoxy and wood, but building a new rudder is not that difficult; i did it last year at the cost of around 300,= euro (better get used to it) on marine grade plywood, glas fabric and epoxy. Took me some weeks though.
If you want to know more, drop me an email.

Happy sailing, Steffen