PDQ OWNERS FORUM

First issue: I noticed that the leading edge of both rudders has cracked bottom paint & the crack seems to be rusty. I assume that the leading edge is stainless steel that is rusting and expanding under the bottom paint. If I sand off the paint should I encase the rudder in something (epoxy?) before repainting to keep the stainless away from seawater? Second issue: the bottom paint (Interlux Micron Extra) has chipped off entirely in a few spots to reveal a white layer that doesn't look like paint or fiberglass. Maybe fairing compound? Anyone know what this surface is, and can I paint it directly (or should it be covered by something else first)? Any suggestions for fixes or descriptions of similar issues would be greatly appreciated!
-Dennis on s/v Serenity

a. Stainless does not expand when it rusts. It might crack.
b. The rudder post is not that close to the surface (see below, PDQ 36 rudder, not mine).



One possibility is that water got inside and expanded due to freezing (this is one of the risks of hauling out in freezing climates). I would just drain (bottom), allow to dry for a few weeks, and repair with thickened epoxy. Hard to see from the pic.

Could there be more serious internal problems? Possibly (which is why the rudder in the image was stripped open). But you have two, so you can wait and see. That said, make certain you understand the emergency steering procedures and how to disconnect the failed rudder. It's easy.

As for the pealing paint, probably just scrape to get anything loose, a light sand and paint (2 coats min).

Thanks for the advice, Thinwater. The freezing hypothesis makes a lot of sense. I'll scrape & sand this weekend to see what I can see.