MacGregorSailors.com

Hi,
Just replaced the rack and pinion and cable on the 26M.
From inside the cabin, everything looks normal and moving correctly. However, the port rudder is not moving through the full range although the stbd one is.
Additionally, the port rudder swings freely when raised out of the water.
Any suggestions or pointers much appreciated.
Thanks.

Hi Macsandy,

Check if the steering arm of the loose rudder has come loose around the rudder-shaft, all the way in the back of the boat. If so, secure it again. Also make sure that all the bolts on the whole rudder assembly are well tightened. If there is play, the rudders may not exactly move in parrallel.

Obelix

I have a similar problem with my port rudder. It is very floggy in the upper bearing so the bearing is worn out. It is a very bad and cheap construction. So now I am looking for a real bearing to put at the upper "bearings" place. Does anyone have an idea to do it?

Thanks Obelix,

Checked and it's not loose. Have found that the vertical shaft will lift about 2 inches on the port side, no movement on the stbd. It would appear the problem is in the shaft or gearing but I can't find any diagrams of the steering system.

Looks like we'll have to get her out of the water and drop the rudder assembly on that side.

Turns out the shaft had sheared. Not sure how to post a pic but it wasn't pretty!