Port installation behind pylons

Hi guys,

I have recently had to repair the gudgeons for both my rudders, in the process, the metal plate that the gudgeon bolts do was accidentaly forced inside the hull, this means that the gudgeon cannot be reattached firmly. Therefore, I need to place a port behind the pylons. What I would like to know is:

1. Will this cause any structural problems,
2. How far behind the pylons should I place the port?
3. What size port should I use?

Cheers

Pierre

You've asked some good question.... I'll give my 2 cents answering your questions in reverse..for what size, go with the smallest port you can fit your forearm into (up to a bent elbow) because you'll only use the opening to make a fix on the backing plates. As for location, use your forearm length as a guide (unless you're 8' tall w/ 3' forearms). Kidding aside, you need to be close enough to reach the transom from the hole you make for the port. As for causing structural problems, you should be fine, provided the port isn't an over sized one. Are you planning to re-use the same plates? Have you installed ports on a boat yet? Would you need or want any photos of an installation?

Well, I will reuse the backing plates, however, I will almost certainly have to remove the plate from the hull. What sized port might I need in order to remove the plate? How large is the plate? If you have any photos of a port installation, it would be helpful. Cheers

Pierre

Pierre, If you send your private email address to [email protected] I'll send you what I have on installing a port.

Since the gudgeon bolts will hold the backing plate in place, there is really little need for the backing plate to actually be attached to the transom.

Personally, I would try to fish a coat hanger or a stiffer wire with a hook on the end through one of the gudgeon bolt holes so that you can pull the back plate towards the transom. Once the aluminum plate is aft, use a longer bolt or two to temporarily snug up the plate so you can bolt the gudgeon in place. You might even consider drilling and tapping one or more additional holes and countersink some flat head machine screws to permanently attach the plate to the transom.

Any port will reduce the structural integrity of the hull. If you think you need access to the inside of the hull, make a hole, repair the gudgeon backup plate, then repair the hole with established fiberglass sandwich repair procedures- I believe there are some great repair videos on the West System or similar website and good info in the HCA Newsletter.

_________________
Alan
'86 H16, Sail #89057