First Structural Failure

JP Dalik · Post by **JP Dalik** » Oct 13th, '10, 21:09

Well
After 34 years I've failed one rudder on our 31. Always thought the port rudder had been bent and straightened. Don't have to worry abouth that any more, its gone.

For those of you that have never had to steer a B31 on 1 rudder....... just be thankful they turn great to the side the rudder is on and just the opposite on the side the rudder isn't on.

Looks like an early end to the season for the CHIMERA. We'll take advantage of the time off and haul out, blast the bottom then go inside for a redo of the topsides (paint and nonskid) and replace the running gear that went bad.

Looks like I'll be fishing the Silverhawk for the fall tuna season.

John F. · Post by **John F.** » Oct 13th, '10, 21:12

I have a set of stock rudders--smaller squarish style--if you need one/both. I think one is bent.

Capt. DQ · Post by **Capt. DQ** » Oct 13th, '10, 22:19

JP,

It's time for the SS oversize rudders now.

DQ

Ed Curry · Post by **Ed Curry** » Oct 14th, '10, 04:10

I have a leftover b28 style rudder laying around if you want to get back in action.

Rawleigh · Post by **Rawleigh** » Oct 14th, '10, 08:59

Good luck, but the rudders aren't considered structural, I don't think! Time for a set of Pat's.

JP Dalik · Post by **JP Dalik** » Oct 14th, '10, 10:01

Thanks for the offers guys.

The marina may have a rudder floating around as well. Might just be a good excuse to get the bottom done and order a set of new blades.

I'll get to spend some mtime with my son in the tree this fall.

Bob H. · Post by **Bob H.** » Oct 14th, '10, 11:34

JP, I have a pair of orginal rudders your more than welcome to as well, take on alot of water? That silverhawk is a great boat, had one before my 31...That boat floated..BH

JP Dalik · Post by **JP Dalik** » Oct 14th, '10, 13:16

Hey thanks Bob. The rudder actually failed structurally, it sheared off at the hull, no water in the boat.

I know when my brother ran the 570 (before the custom boat solution) he went through several rudders that failed the same way, only difference was his weren't 34 years old.

It'll make for a nice easy winter straightening out the hull strakes and refinishing the top sides.

Carl · Post by **Carl** » Oct 14th, '10, 14:47

That's where they break.
It's a fatigue point...especially if it was bent and straightened.

Ironman · Post by **Ironman** » Oct 14th, '10, 18:19

HI had to redo my rudders about 8 years ago.. put 35 Cabo rudders in (Nice).. I may be able to find the old ones.. if youre interested..
Wayne

JP Dalik · Post by **JP Dalik** » Oct 14th, '10, 20:21

Looks like I'll be going with new stainless. fun fun fun thanks for all the support. Great spot this place we have here. Thanks Capt. Pat

bertram31.com

First Structural Failure

First Structural Failure

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