Author Topic: Question of failed P34 rudder  (Read 2494 times)

mmil95

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  • Model: P34
  • Vessel Name: Marbella
  • City: South Freeport
  • State: ME
Question of failed P34 rudder
« on: December 14, 2019, 11:53:45 AM »
I would appreciate some advice. We have a 1984 P34 hull #43. When the boat was hauled this October, the boatyard noted loosening of the rudder shaft and advised that the rudder could fail and that it should be removed and evaluated. The rudder has been removed and we are told that due to extensive corrosion and loosening of the stainless steel plate it cannot be saved. They are recommending either finding a replacement rudder (which they have been unable to find) or fashioning a new one which they are offering to do for about $6000. Does this sound like reasonable advice? How often do these rudders fail? Of note, we noticed no problems with steering just prior to the boat being hauled and I must say that I was never completely convinced about the play in the rudder that was pointed out to me after the boat was on the hard. Thanks.