I realized recently that the right hand rudder has a crack that is about 8" in length. What is the best method of repairing this crack? My idea is to grind down about 3/16" deep the length of the crack, approximately 2" on either side of crack and on both sides of the rudder, then fill crack with epoxy using syringe and build back up with several layers of glass and epoxy, sand flush and paint. Will this work or is there a better alternative short of buying a new rudder?

Please see attachment.

Thanks,

Walter

Buy a new to you rudder...

That's a Lexan rudder.

Nothing sticks to it for very long. Epoxy / fiberglass is brittle in comparison and the different elasticity will eventually cause them to separate.

You could try pinning it together (think orthopedics), but your bet bet is to replace it.

Try crack spackle.... Plumbers use it to fill their cracks.

OOPS! I was guessing it was fiberglass, but if it is lexan, your right, glassing would not work. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> Thanks. On to plan B.........whatever that may be.

it's gonna break sooner or later,, might as well replace it!!!!!!!!!