CD 27 Rudder Question

[jneely]

I have been noticing some vibration and some noise coming from the rudder post on our CD 27 Troika when iI move the tiller back and forth. Both are more pronounced in one direction than the other. I have two questions. First, does anyone have any idea as to te cause. And second, is there any way to lubricate the rudder post?

[sgbernd]

The problem is likely the tiller attachment to the rudder post rather than the rudder itself although internal rudder failures have been reported. The tiller pivots up and down on a stainless steel bolt which goes thru bronze fittings securing the tiller to the rudder. After a few decades, the SS (which is harder than the bronze) wears the holes from round into ovals and no longer fits tightly. Probably one side is worn more than the other which is why you feel the asymmetry.

My first effort at repair on my CD28 was to drill the holes on the drill press and fit a larger diameter bolt, cut down to size such that the threads did not chew on the bronze, and it worked for a several years, (and also weakened the joint), but now the problem has returned. I am now considering either a) replacing the whole thing from Spartan along with a new tiller or b) trying to press SS sleeves into the bronze and going with a smaller bolt diameter, such that the SS bolt wears on SS sleeve insert rather than bronze which should last a long time.

Option a) is likely more permanent while b) more involved and less expensive.

I am interested to hear what path others have chosen for this problem and how long the repair has lasted.

Steve

[csoule13]

All ears for an answer to the lubrication part of that question. I've asked before, and have dangled my head under the cockput and can't figure it out.

[jneely]

Thanks for the replies.