Gav's Top Tips "Raked Rudder Blade Position"

[GavinYoung68]

Hi all, another tip to get you prepared for the the main event of the year "Raked Rudder blade Position", this article explains why we have been raking the rudder blade forwards and how to set it up if you want to do the same.

See the latest article on the technical page - MK1 & MK2 Modifications/General Modifications.

[Kevin]

Hi Gavin,
Thanks for the post on Raked Rudder Blade Position.
Quick question on the method (sorry this may be obvious). Do you start by removing the rudder pivot bolt, allowing the blade to move within the stock. Set up the blade as you advise ie measuring the forward rake and rudder length.
Once happy mark the position of the pivot point on the blade and drill a hole through the rudder.
Will the new pivot hole be horizontal with the original one?

What size drill bit do you need for the pivot point. Would you start with a smaller bit and work up? Are you likely to get an ‘exit wound’ when the drill breaks through the gelcoat.
Sorry lots of questions but I’d be interested in giving it a go but want to get it right first time.

Many thanks
Kevin
1226

[Pete1177]

Hi Kevin,

The process for drilling out the hole is described in my post here https://www.supernovadinghy.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=1422&p=5059&sid=5ce456669f6f51bc3dc8120baf00139f&sid=5ce456669f6f51bc3dc8120baf00139f#p5059

Of course this was to install a 25mm bush (I used a Forstner drill bit) but if you are drilling out for the standard bolt you need to make it 8mm. A standard wood drill with a brad tip will do the job, but of course you need to use a 2mm pilot drill first, then use the 8mm bit from both sides to avoid break-out.

The difficulty with drilling a standard hole is that you need to get it perpendicular to the rudder face. It is relatively easy with a bushed fitting as the bush is epoxied in then when semi-set after a few minutes, the rudder is assembled into the stock with the bolt till fully hardened. This ensures that the rudder and stock are properly aligned. You don't have this luxury if drilling out a hole with no bush. So use a bench drill if you can.

Good luck,

Pete
Class Secretary
SN1177