Cruiser 33 2011. Rudder washer

[ANTREVELL]

On the top of my rudder there is a thick and a thin plastic washer situated  between the rudder and the hull . The thicker of the two which is the one that sits on the top of the rudder has a crack that’s starts from the outer edge and looks as though it runs to the centre. I am not sure if the crack has appeared for a reason or is designed to be there.  The cracked washer appears to be fixed to the top of the rudder. Does anybody know what these two washers do .Is it normal for the thick one to be cracked. Do I need to do anything about it or can I leave it until next winter. The rudder appears to be quite free and smooth when turned with no sideways movement. As I should be launching tomorrow
Regards
Tony Revell

[tiger79]

If you look on Jefa's website, you can see diagrams of rudder arrangements (look for "spare parts").  They don't appear to have any washers.  If the rudder turns freely I wouldn't worry too much.  You could email Jefa and ask them; include photos for a more informed reply.

[Moodymike]

I have a similar problem on by B32, had it for two seasons . I think it is just a spacer, looking at other Bavaria’s everyone is different. I suspect they are Delrin material and would have to have one made up. Big faff to take of rudder to change. Rudder works perfect, I think crack was caused by having the top nut to tight.

[ANTREVELL]

Thank you for your replies. Does anyone know if the rudder stock is stainless or aluminium
Regards Tony

[tiger79]

Does anyone know if the rudder stock is stainless or aluminium

Check with Jefa, but I'd say aluminium.

[Yngmar]

I think the washer is just to prevent the rudder from riding up in a big sea and touching the hull, as at least on our boat there is nothing else preventing a small amount of upwards movement. It's not unusual for such washers to be split and installed by bending them open, to prevent having to remove the rudder entirely - if it's a clear cut, that's probably the case.

[Moodymike]

A couple of pic's of various Bavaria rudder spacers observed around the yard. Sorry some up inverted.