Howard, are you going to race it or is it just a lake boat?

Get a steel rudder for sure. My rudder is not centered so I can pull the prop shaft without messing with the steering. There is probably some better reason to off-set the rudder.

Howard

 

  Duno bout the racing deal yet I had Bullett make it a new hull, motor is a nice piece, I.m going through everything as if i am going to race. I like the explanation about getting the prop shaft out so I will not move it. So I should ditch the bronze rudder?

Howard...might want to check the rule book if you are thinking of the bronze rudder....but if it was me underwater safety is nothing to weigh options about. Ask anyone who has had a parts failure what they would do next time

 

Go with a steel rudder, I think most people would agree. I have a steel wedge rudder that came from Glenwood Marine and the boat steers better than ever. If you get a steel rudder you will have to take off the chrome if you plan to race.

Most race sanctioning bodys want all steel and no chrome under the water.

Besides it looks good.  

If you have a rudder or any chrome plated steel item that the chrome is removed or you have it chromed be certain that whoever does it also bakes it. If that isn't done there is a (good chance) for hydrogen embrittlement of the steel to take place. Basically, what that means is hydrogen will form in the steel, and if that happens it will break.
Talk to almost any good machine shop and they can explain what I am talking about and who can take care of it. It is not a big deal to do -- It is necessary to get done though.

Hewitt's new TR7 Flattie Hull has a centered rudder.  To get at the prop shaft you just drop the rudder ... With the system he's come up with, it takes a couple of minutes ... Really a 'Trick' setup.

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