Hi,

Just blew out my rudder yesterday (will post pics showing the complete de-lamination on one side all the way up to the waterline; leading to trailing edge) it opened up like a paperback novel and created a storm anchor like affect.

I may try to do a temp repair to get through the season (involving lots of epoxy, 5200, duct tape, bolts, etc... just to hold the *#&^%$) thing together)

looking for some input on ordering a new rudder; source, options, finishes, style (class legal vs. modified design) etc... also can anyone tell me if there is a source where I can find a new one for less than the $2,000 they appear to be??? not planning on doing any OD racing, but don't want to handicap anyone in the future.

Thanks for any advice / direction.

Mark (hull #402)
Shelburne, VT
Lake Champlain.

We have a modified ruder we might be interested in selling you. Let me know if thats of any interest and I can check with my partners. it has added length to the front edge for less weather helm effect on the helmsman.

Hi rshepley - if Mark wants to stick with a stock rudder - let me know - I'm interested in your rudder.

No other J/30's here in Charleston and we only ocean race - could really use a balanced rudder.

Mark - if you want to stay stock - my stock rudder might become available per the above

-dan

Dan / rsheplay,

I would be happy with either rudder as long as they are in good structural condition. If you guys make an arrangement for the balanced rudder and the stock becomes available, just let me know how much you would be looking for the rudder.

Thanks, Mark

Brandon at Pirate Cove had a "New" rudder from "the olde days" last summer when I was repairing 526s with penetrating epoxy.

might still have it at a good price. Pirate Cove

given choice off shore ... balanced rudder. I think it also helps with autohelm for cruisers.

there is another thread on the site that takes that conversation pretty far.

Steal one off a J/29 when they aren't looking.

Trade for a standard rudder so you can come race OD with us up in Marblehead (-:

Spoke to Brandon at Pirate's Cove, he is going to go searching as he does recall having a left over "new" rudder, said he would need some time, that would be perfect if I could find an old "new" rudder as my original one lasted 28 years. In the meantime, I have since bolted, duct taped and lashed this one to get me through the season, yes, very frankenstein'esque, but I just want to get another 3-5 weeks of sailing, then I'll deal with the mess.

You know the comment about the J29... sadly there is one in dry storage at my yard that I haven't seen anyone look at much less use for the past year or so... with a very nice, non broken rudder just hanging off the stern... hmmmm.

thanks for all the advice / offers to trade and insight into my situation.

This J/29 owner may have one for cheap. I am not sure what condition it might be in: