Skeg Hung Rudder Question

[reignmaker]

I have a Hughes 40, and I recently rebuilt the rudder. I am about to re-hang the rudder on the skeg, but I have a question about a component.

There is what appears to be some type of plastic 'washer' or spacer that was between the skeg shoe or gudgeon and the rudder shaft. The shaft sat on this disc and has been significantly worn, so it needs replacing. The question is anybody have any idea what type of plastic material this might be?

It is dark in color, almost like is has some graphite component, but flexible like nylon. Very dense, and hard wearing.

Any guidance would be appreciated,
Steve.

[Captainmeme]

Delrin?

[reignmaker]

just checked the DuPont website....sure sounds like Delrin...Thanks
Steve.

[GaryHLucas]

Might be Delrin, but I'd use Nylatron (Molybedenum Disufide filled Nylon). A very tough self lubricating material commonly use to make wire rope sheaves on large cranes, and as wear pads between the sections of telescoping cranes. Did I mention it is cheap? McMaster Carr sells it.

Gary H. Lucas

[Livia]

Ours is delrin. Be careful if getting one fabricated - they absorb water and expand.

[Pub911]

I have a Hughes 38 and the bottom of the skeg hung rudder wobbles in the shoe. Maybe I need one too - if I had one it's long gone. Let me know what you find. Thanks.

By the way, GREAT Profile Pic, Livia.