Rudder broke off

[jlash]

I have a 2001 4.3L Mercruiser and I hit something and broke off about 2 inches of my rudder. Can this be repaired? I have heard of props being repaired by welding on new material. Can the lower unit be repaired the same way? The rudder is also bent. I live in Ct does anyone know of an outfit that can handle this task?
Thanks,
John

 

[littlebookworm]

Re: Rudder broke off

I think you're describing the skeg, the lower, pointed part of the outdrive. Breaking that is more common than you think. A replacement edge is made, which bolts onto the bottom of the drive. I believe there is also one which welds onto the drive, but that one is more difficult and expensive to install because the drive is aluminum. Just google skeg repair and you should find it. Hy

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Rudder broke off

And the truth is you probably do not need to do anything. It serves more as a protection for the prop hitting the bottom instead of a rudder. But as mentioned above, you can buy a bolt on replacement - one is called "Skeg Guard."

 

[spdracr39]

Re: Rudder broke off

Mine cost about 150.00 to repair at a shop that can weld aluminum. Its was broken completely off. The handling of the boat was not affected in any way but I was not comfortable with having the prop exposed to underwater hazards.

 

[mercs4mark]

Re: Rudder broke off

a prop repair shop could point you in the right direction if they themselves dont do the work.

 

[vandentr]

Re: Rudder broke off

See if you can find a local welder to repair it. There's really not much to it given the right tools and a 4 x 4 piece of 1/8" aluminum...


-TVB

 

[achris]

Re: Rudder broke off

Part number for a replacement skeg from Merc is -90185A1 and will cost you $46 from one of the on-line shops. You will need to have it welded on and painted. I have a friend who ran for several years without a skeg and had no problems. As stated, it for prop protection and aesthetics more than a functioning rudder.

Chris...........