Rudder Post Condition - Dezinced?

[Donahue]

I dropped my rudder as part of a refit. I believe the post is original (almost 60-year-old) silicon bronze. I'm wondering if it can go another 60. There is some pitting around where the glass begins on the post and there is a slight "salmon" film on the outer layer. Thoughts from anyone who knows their metallurgy??

[SailingHarmonie]

This looks like a great example of "they don't make them like they used to." Good bronze is as close to a forever material as we have around salt water.

It doesn't look new, but it certainly is nowhere near end of life. If the copper is just a light surface film, that's not a problem. Keep it well protected by zinc, and your electrical system in good nick, and the next owner will be asking the same question a decade or two hence.

[Don C L]

Looks just like my 62 year old rudder post. I think that thing will outlive us both and our kids. What boat is that?

[Donahue]

Thanks! I think you're both right. I was thinking the same thing but one of the guys helping me with the refit was thinking that it looked a little "pink" and had me second guessing myself. It's a solid 2 inch bronze post on an old Hinckley 48.

[barnakiel]

imho yes
sure the darker thing is exposed copper


go by as others say, my post is - most unfortunately - not bronze


All I know is that there has never been a failure on a Monsun posts - they are 35mm bronze, first built 1974. You can compare this to your own boat.


Hinckley used top quality materials. Top of the top.



b.