Rudder bearings

[eileandour]

I am replacing the rudder bearings on my Princess 35 and I need to use a non setting sealant when re fitting, presumably so they can be removed in years to come. The suppliers thought Sikaflex would be overkill and I am struggling to find a suitable alternative. I have never done this before so any tips or advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Andy Cox]

Do not use Sikaflex. It's as close to a permanent adhesive as you'll ever get.
I would suggest a product similar to that used to bed in hatches etc. It's non setting but provides a good seal. I can't recommend a particular product but probably worth calling one of the big online chandlers.

 

[burgundyben]

Arbomast BR. Its a butyl rubber non setting mastic that skins over. I have used it for years both above and below the waterline with great success for precisely the reason that dismantling is easy.

 

[oldgit]

I am replacing the rudder bearings on my Princess 35 and I need to use a non setting sealant when re fitting, presumably so they can be removed in years to come. The suppliers thought Sikaflex would be overkill and I am struggling to find a suitable alternative. I have never done this before so any tips or advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

Interesting.
As these will have been in there for around 35 years wonder why you consider they require replacement , presume wear on rudder shafts/ bearings and water ingress .On many boats of this vintage water, will seep up the shafts but should not be a major problem.
As for which sealant, doubt that it will make much difference compared to the amount of work that will be needed to remove those new bearings in another 30 years time. A lot of work for very little gain ?
In the past have used CT1 to do this job on a Broom 37, the bearings were not worn but were loose in the hull.
Do keep us informed and a pix or two would be nice.

 

[eileandour]

Thanks for your reply, your presumption is correct that water ingress is the problem and when I removed the top bearing the o ring was worn flat. The actual removal went quite smoothly and I just want to use some sealant to try to make sure of no leaks.

 

[simonfraser]

i'd sikka that in, 30 yrs ... hm go and worry about something else