When I hauled out last fall with the boat on the cradle I turned my rudder with my hand on the rudder while standing on the ground. The wheel was still mounted. The rudder was quite stiff to turn, though I have no reference. I am thinking about dropping the rudder and inspect the bearing arrangement. I have no idea what to expect. Has anyone done this? Any tips? I have a 1994 Catalina 36 Mk1 Standard Rig, purchased in 2007.
JoelyRose1350
Before you get too concerned, check that the wheelbrake hasn't been set or tightened. Don't ask how I know this.
Bruce Campbell
Evergreen Dreams #1409
Joely Rose,
With all the mechanical advantage built into the system (while steering), moving the rudder shouldn't be that easy. With or without my wheel installed, I have to lean into the rudder when I move it to paint, etc. As long as the wheel is easy to move when it is installed, I wouldn't be too worried. Dropping the rudder is a fairly large project.
Tom Sokoloski
C36/375IA Past Commodore
Noank, CT
Joely Rose,
Tom is right there is much to do to remove the rudder. I have taken my out twice since 2003 for two different reasons. The very first time was a bear because of corosion of the aluminum and SS bolts. Not so bad the 2nd time. I know there is no bearing to service. I would not worry about it being difficult to move initially because of inertia to over come the system. If the brake is not on and the wheel moves the rudder easily I'd leave things alone.
Gary Bain
S/V "Gone With The Wind"
Catalina 36', Hull #: 1056, Year: 1990, Engine: M-35
Standard Rig
Moored: Boothbay Harbor, Maine
Home: Auburn, Maine
Here's how they work:
[url]http://c34ia.org/wiki/index.php?title=Rudder_Bearing[/url]
[url]http://c34ia.org/wiki/index.php?title=Packing_Gland[/url]
Your C36s are very similar to our C34s. Your C36 website might also have these type of diagrams for your boats. If so, Tom should be able to guide you there. The C30 is similar also.
Stu Jackson, C34IA Secretary, C34 #224, 1986, SR/FK, M25 engine, Rocna 10 (22#)
Be sure to check you have nothing stored in the aft lockers that is leaning against the steering or impeding the cables. Because a wheel gives you more leverage it is not as noticable as when you try to move a rudder manually.
John Meyer
Hilbre
C36 MKll, Hull 2135
Cabrillo Marina, San Pedro, CA
Thanks all for your insight. I'll do a thorough check as recommended and monitor the rudder. Likely I am overly concerned as a fairly new C36 owner.
Under the category of "Duh!":
I was diving under my boat for hull cleaning and inspection one time and tried to turn the rudder. It just would not budge! I came up to realize that the tight-fitting wheel/pedestal cover was constraining the wheel. :o
Duane Ising - Past Commodore (2011-2012)
s/v Diva Di
1999 Catalina 36 Hull #1777
Std rig; wing keel, M35B, Delta (45#)
Punta Gorda, FL
http://www.sailblogs.com/member/diva-di/
I had a similar problem. I determined the grease used to lube the shaft was circa 84. I removed the brass three bolt cover for the flax and squirted a little 3 in 1 oil in the packing slot. After a second dose of oil I installed a some new packing and replaced the cover. After a few turns on the steering wheel the rudder shaft was turning like new.
Can you let me know what you found out and your solution?
Chris
Chris Stewart
S/V "24~7"
1984 Catalina 36 Tall
Hull #251 M25
(SF Bay) Alameda, CA