loose rudder

[HUSKERDEN]

I am in the process of buying a Typhoon. The top portion of the rudder, is somewhat loose. You can pull on it and see a very slight gap where is connects to the brass pinion. Is this a concern, and what could be done about this?

[Paul D.]

Dennis,

I don't think it is that much of a concern if there is under 1/8 inch of play at the top of the rudder. Grab the top of the rudder and wiggle it from side to side. Also see if it lifts up very much. You could check below the cockpit too to see what that area looks like. My Typhoon had a little play in it and sometimes, when heavily loaded with people, water would come up through the rudder tube and into the cockpit. Not much though and it was very rare. I have heard this is common on the Typhoons and not cause for alarm.

Hope this helps,
Paul Danicic
CD 33 Femme du Nord
Mpls

[Didereaux]

If the "Typhoon' has the same method of connection for the tiller head to rudder post as the CD-25 then you might check the 'key'. That is a small square piece of metal stock in a groove. To find it, loosen the tightening bolt of the tiller head. Pull the head up and off (you might have to lightly tap it. You should see a squarish groove in the rudder post and a piece of keystock. If you do not then get yourself a short piece, an inch or so (take the tiller head with you if you are unsure of the size.

I noticed that one of the former owners of my boat was one who apparently took the tiller off when they docked the boat and went home. This caused a good deal of wear on the 'key' as well as the tightening bolt, so I replaced both and the slippage disappeared completely.

g'Luk