Hey Friends,
Last weekend our Edson radial drive wheel cracked on our 2003 '36. Wasn't catastrophic as we had enough steerage to make it back to our mooring. But....needs to be replaced. My understanding is that the best COA would be to pull the radial wheel off, measure rudder post with a micrometer or calipers, provide measurements to Edson so the new one is bored appropriately, and replace.
So pardon my ignorance here, as the boat is still fairly new to us, but can I replace while in the water? Or do I have to haul out? I've heard varying guidance about how the radial/quadrant is the only thing holding the rudder in (vs. a collar that holds the rudder in). This may sound dumb but I'd hate to spend the money (and time) to haul out if not needed. I'd also hate to remove my radial wheel and watch my rudder drop to the sea bed. : )
Thanks in advance for any help you could provide to this C36 newbie!
Best,
Kurt
"Luna"
2003 MKii
Standard Rig, Wing Keel
Hull #2160
Bristol, RI
I have had my rudder off actually 3 times since owning the boat. The deck plate on the cockpit floor should you open it up you will see a cap at the top of the rudder post. This cap has a bolt through the rudder post and should prevent the rudder from dropping out. The quadrant is in two pieces and also has a bolt through the rudder post. I can tell you that corrosion will be a major factor here and you might wish to start by seeing if you can release the bolts. Keep the rudder cap in place don't remove it and I believe you can get the quadrant apart. Edson is a very good contact to discuss and get answers as to what you can do.
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
Thanks Gary, that's reassuring. Yes, there seems to be a ton of white dust around the radial which I assumed was galvanic corrosion. Glad this happened close to home and not when we were too far out.
Will give Edson a call as well. Thanks again!
"Luna"
2003 MKii
Standard Rig, Wing Keel
Hull #2160
Bristol, RI