Twist and Stow Rudder Improvement

I just didn't care for the small plastic hook catch on the TandS runner assembly. Too easy to kick up and then hard to get locked back without lifting and reseating the rudder. So I began looking for a better alternative. I think I found one.

I cut the small hook and latch off and epoxied a pair of small magnets in that same area - one on the rudder and one on the TandS mount. Now, the rudder will still kick up if it hits an underwater obstruction, but just as soon as it comes back down the magnets will grab it and lock it back down automatically. I don't have to do anything from the cockpit. And, it still retracts easily, perhaps even more so than before.

Still going to retrofit my system with the original style lever, but it's already apparent that this magnet system is far more to my liking than the hook and latch system. It works extremely well. Will try to get some photos up next week when I have more time.

Tom,

Your idea intrigues me. My problem in my 2010 Oasis has been that the rudder simply does not lock down; it flips up when I get in any significant waves or current, so I have to cleat it, which leaves it vulnerable to damage should I hit anything (as I often do in the Colorado River).

What kind of magnets are you using and where did you get them? Rare earth? In particular, will they withstand saltwater?

I look forward to seeing the pictures.

You can obtain any amount of tension you need by the size of magnets you use. If yours flips up too easily, just go to a larger pair.

You really only need one magnet - you can put a piece of steel on the other side, but I was worried about corrosion so I went with a pair.

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