Rudder stock wobbles in rudder tube

[PaulMcC]

Hi All,
I've got a small amount of play in the tiller on my boat but having finally investigated this is not play between the tiller and rudder stock, it's play between the rudder stock and rudder tube. It's not a lot, probably a couple of mm's but is quite annoying, especially in rough conditions when the waves put alternating pressure on each side of the rudder.
What's the recommended fix for this? Presumably I either need to create a tight fitting bush at the top and bottom of the rudder stock/rudder tube, or do something to the entire stock so that it is a tight fit over it's entire length.

Thanks!

 

[Talulah]

Sounds like you have your winter maintenance plan started.
If the boat is coming out this winter I would be looking at replacing the rudder bearing.
Whilst no immediate rush any play will accelerate the wear. At least having discovered it now you have time to order parts before the lift out.
I would anticipate a 4 week turnaround for a new bearing. The concern will be wear of the rudder stock itself.
Some people put a sleeve around the rudder stock but usually the wear is uneven and hence this kind of remedy rarely works.

 

[Daydream believer]

My boat has Jefa ( easily found on google) bearings top & bottom & i just purchased 2 sets of new rollers at £ 100-00 per set plus postage & VAT
have you checked what the rudder stock actually sits in. I would be surprised if it was just a tube

 

[Talulah]

Assuming you are talking about your UFO34
http://www.ybw.com/forums/showthread.php?232987-Ufo-34-Rudder-bearing-Replacement
http://www.ybw.com/forums/showthread.php?234250-Ufo-34-How-do-i-get-the-bottom-rudder-bearing-out

 

[PaulMcC]

Thanks both,
Looks like another one for the winter jobs list and not a small job either!