----- Original Message -----

From: MC Carpenter

To: For and about Montgomery Sailboats

Sent: Saturday, October 11, 2003 2:11 PM

Subject: New old M-17

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what is the best cutting hacksaw blade for 1/2 inch stainless steel rod, my normal hacksaw blades even up to 24 teeth per inch, do a little more than harass the metal.

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----- Original Message -----

From: Bill Sylvester

To: For and about Montgomery Sailboats

Sent: Friday, October 10, 2003 11:15 AM

Subject: New old M-17

Howard,
Thank you very much for the information. I was not even aware that there was a pin on the lower end of the shaft.
I will check out McMaster-Carr. ThomasRegister has a Silicon Bronze three foot rod for about $32 including shipping. Do you know anything about the durability of that material?

Thanks.

Bill
On Friday, October 10, 2003, at 05:30 AM, Howard Audsley wrote:

It just so happens I have my original rudder  rod in the basement. Well, at least it was the original that came with the boat when I got it.

It's 32 1/2" long x 1/2" round. It has 2 - 5/32nd" holes drilled 1/4" and 16" from one end. These are for the cotter or clevis pins that hold the rod in place on the gudgeon brackets. Both ends are beveled or rounded slightly to allow easier insertion through the rudder brackets. The newer pins were machined down on one end to fit a smaller bracket on the bottom, and only has one hole in the middle.

It's made of stainless steel. I'd try for something like 316 stainless, which is more corrosion resistant. You can order this from McMaster-Carr:

http://www.mcmaster.com/

Try putting product # 9298K123 in the search field.  This is for a slightly tempered 316, and should be a bit tougher.

The rudder rod is subject to being bent if the rudder hits something while underway. The one I have was bent slightly.....and others can confirm this. (Right Clarence?)  Any bend at all and it will be hard to get the rudder installed, and it won’t be easy to raise and lower it.  Anyone who has a rod like this should always have a spare in the boat.

Howard
M17, #278
Audasea


On 10/9/03 1:51 PM, "Bill Sylvester" <wmcsyl1@cox.net> wrote:


I am continuing to attempt to restore to my old 1978 M-17.  Have
finished her tiller and rudder and now need to replace the half inch
rod that the rudder turns and slides on.
The rod has been eaten away to just above the waterline so I don't
know how long the original one was.
I would appreciate information of the length of the rod and suggested
material.  I believe the one I have is stainless steel but the rot
makes me wonder.

Thanks,

Bill