Gulf Island 29 stiff rudder post/ Bearing

[Himalayan Soul]

Hi, long time listener-first time caller. I recently purchased a G.I 29, which is a Derek Cove design. I have noticed that the tiller is quite stiff. I figure that it is probably one of the bearings that need replacing. I was hoping to get some information on how to replace the bearing(s).

[bwindrope]

I don't know your boat and so cannot advise on that front, but I thought I would tell you that I have found an enormous amount of benefit from lubricating my rudder post with TriFlow. My post will squeak and get a bit rough, and since it is in the cockpit and exposed to rain, most any light lubricant will wash away eventually.

So once or twice a year I spray Triflow into the rudder post area and it does a tremendous job of quieting and easing the movement. Simple and cheap, and may at least help your situation, if not solve it.

Good luck.

[Himalayan Soul]

Thank's, I'll try TriFlow out. I would be interested in hearing from G.I. 29 owners of their experiences with the tiller/rudder.

[shoalsoftime]

Hi - I'd like to hear Him.Soul had any success with the suggestion from bwindrope? I have the same issue with my Merit 25. Worse, comparing her tiller movement with others in my local fleet I am way out of tune in this area and was just about ready to schedule a haul-out that I would otherwise put off another year.
Thank you