Hi all,
Dragonfly has developed some leakage from the rudder tube. I believe that maintenance of the grease cup helps solve this problem. I'd appreciate any advice on this.
What kind of grease should be used?
I haven't gotten close enough to the grease cup to see how it works. Is there an opening for the application of the grease? Any special tools needed?
Thanks in advance!
Pam Driscoll
Dragonfly 30U #455
Salem MA
It is a threaded cup which is loaded with grease, which one screws down to force grease into the rudder tube. If it is filled in the spring and screwed down sufficiently for grease to start coming out at the top of the shaft, it should be good for the season. I use teflon grease because I have it. It is best to grease the shaft in warm weather and to move the rudder from side to side while doing it. On a 26 it is accessed from the port lazeret. Some of us have substituted a zirk fitting for the grease cup. If you have a chance to see old farm machinery and steam engines, they will use grease cups to lubricate their bearings. A dry rudder shaft will wear prematurely, but also allow water to be driven up the shaft when sailing fast.
No tools are needed. Just unscrew the cup and add grease. In my case somebody had overtightened the cup making it difficult to unscrew. One should only tighten it by hand.
J, Newell
Mascouche 26C 1
Toronto
Thanks Allen and John. This is what I needed to know. Allen, I like your solution - would certainly make this task easier.
I often wish I had a pet orangutan that could fit into the “engine room”. Imagine how useful he’d be with those long arms! And he could probably climb the mast easily too.
Pam
I agree with John. Keep it simple. Just about any waterproof grease is fine. Personally I like the grease cup.
Joe Valinoti
S/V IL Gatto NS30U #221
Sea Harbour YC
Oriental, NC USA
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When I bought Mascouche her grease cup had been mutilated by a strong hand with a vice grip. It was impossible to remove the top of the cup. However I found a man on line who supplied parts for antique steam engines. He had my size in brass or steel. I chose steel and I think the cost was $12 US in 2006. I am sure it would have been double that if it came from a marine supplier.
John Newell
Mascouche 26C 1
Toronto
Good thinking, John!
Joe
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I’m really liking the orangutan idea, Pam. A 26 Classic engine compartment is a difficult place to be, especially when you’re 6 ft 2in.
Jack Dokter
Nine Lives 26C W21 099
Penetanguishene, On