Need new rudder hardware

[Sovereign85]

So my Sovereign could use new rudder hardware. Where does everyone seem to find the parts and good service.

I've been looking at Rig Rites site online, have not had a chance to call them. Are they state side?

Also can you get just the bushing for the top gudgeon? mine is completely gone and is for a 1/2" pin hole.

Can rudders be resurfaced? I just cleaned off the marine growth and it looks like the surface is ruff. I will be removing the rudder soon for the hardware renewal.

Thanks everyone.

[UNCIVILIZED]

Rudders can be; resurfaced, refaired, & or re-profiled. As in changing their NACA foil section (profile aka foil shape). And if you need tips on any of the above, folks here, & via the provided links, are happy to offer up a hand.

For resources on rudder hardware, pretty much any shop which does custom machining should be able to help you out. And also, to further pursue your current line of thinking, try a search on here via the header of chainplates. As lots of guys have links & info on getting new ones made, & the tech. is pretty much the same.

Good Luck!

PS: You may find some helpful resources on www.L-36.com especially regarding foils. But you can also try www.forums.sailinganarchy.com for both too.

[Delancey]

If you post a photo of your hardware folks can probably identify the manufacture, likely not custom and you can probably get replacements pretty easy. Haven't heard the best reviews of Rig Rite customer service but don't have experience with them myself. Have posted a couple links to other reliable vendors below.

Your rudder is likely fiberglass. Unless it has blisters, the rough surface is probably just old bottom paint. Don't have to make a big deal out of resurfacing, refairing, or reprofiling it to a National Advisory Committee on Aeronautics profile. Just sand the paint smooth or maybe try a citrus paint stripper (test first), apply new bottom paint. No big deal. Best of luck!

SOVEREIGN 23 sailboat specifications and details on sailboatdata.com
Rudder Hardware | West Marine
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