Sigma 33 Rudder Bearings

[Ephesian]

Hi All
We've just replaced the rudder bearings in our Sigma 33 with new ones sourced from Northshore (who own the Sigma rights now I believe). However the bearings are turning inside the tube (i.e. turning with the stock when you move the tiller). This makes a terrible noise! There is also some vibration from the lower bearing, so I think it is not a perfect fit inside the tube.

I guess both problems might be because the tube has worn slightly.

Any advice or ideas? It strikes me that I might be able to drill a couple of holes through the tube (access via the cockpit locker) and then tap and screw in some machine screws or bolts to hold the bearing in place. Might that work?

I'm especially keen on a plan that avoids me having to get the boat lifted (again!)

 

[saltylegs]

I had my rudder out during the winter (sigma 33) for repairs and checked the bearings, from memory I think there was a screw or locating peg between the bearing and the rudder tube, maybe this has been left out on replacement.
It sounds as though the lower bearing may be too loose in the tube (ie undersized) if you are getting vibration.
I dont think you could put a grub screw in the lower bearing from inside the boat as it locates in the flat top of the mini skeg.

as a temp fix if you could dry out and drop the rudder and check the above and if the lower bearing is too small then refit with a little filler (I would not use epoxy or sikaflex as you will have to replace with a better size bearing soon)

 

[MoodySabre]

I think your boat was made by Marine Projects as was mine so they may be similar in construction. The Moody has a grub screw into the bearing. In my boat this is accessible from the aft cabin and is in the bit that is above the floor of the sugar scoop. Just a thought.

 

[Bav32]

sig 33 bearings

They are or should be held in place by a couple of grub screws.
Check the fibreglass tube and you should see the half round shape from previous bearings.
As you have to drill the pilot hole between the bearing and the outer tube after a few replacements it pays to fill the old half holes with expoxy filler and redrill.
I also fitted longer than standard lower bearings , so you get to use "unworn " shaft.
PM me if you want more details.