The easiest way to check is to have someone turn the wheel while watching the quadrant. ![]() Next, move into the boat and take a look at the quadrant, which should be firmly attached to the stock. Expect a little “weight” from the wheel, but the system should move freely. The wheel will move as the rudder is pivoted, so make sure the brake is off. Similarly, pivot the rudder, which should move smoothly without a lot of resistance. If you see more than a half-inch of movement, you may have a wear problem. ![]() Try to move the rudder laterally as well as fore and aft. Look for wear or stiffness in the rudder bearings. It is best to start the inspection at the rudder with the boat out of the water if possible. ![]() You should inspect the steering system once a year and before any major offshore passage. A properly maintained system will run for a very long time, but one that is neglected is a precursor to flailing arms and crunching fiberglass. Anyone with basic mechanical skills can do the maintenance, both quickly and relatively inexpensively. Proper maintenance means mechanical inspection, tension tests and lubrication.
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