Rudder bearings

[Tarka1]

I am going to replace the rudder bearings on my Kelt 850 but am struggling to remove the phosphour bronze(?) fitting that fits on to the top of the rudder stock. I've removed the tiller which was bolted through the stock and the phos bronze fitting and I am now left with what looks like a stainless steel tapered pin holding the fitting to the stock. Question is, how do I get this pin out, after trying to "persuade" it with a big hammer and having no luck I'm now open to sensible suggestions.

 

[stevebirch2002]

Just did this on my Vega last wednesday, the only way I could get the pin out was with a drill and a 5mm drill-bit. Took about 15 minutes but did the job.

 

[Graham_Wright]

Gas torch. Generally works (always assuming you can heat the surrounding metal without setting fire to anything).

 

[yoda]

A good pointed drift enabled me to get mine out. Make sure the pin is straight and not tapered so you know which way to drift it out. Don't be surprised if nothing moves after the pin is removed. Mine took weeks of soaking in penetrating oil and then plenty of heat to remove the fitting. Good luck.

Yoda

 

[jimbouy]

Interesting use of the letter "I" Steve /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[Tarka1]

Looks like I'm in for some hard graft! Thanks for the replies.