How to open the rudder assembly?

I've recently bought the 10.5 Eclipse Dura and loved it. During a recent trip, the rudder became stuck due to sand and fine gravel getting into the rudder housing. I could no longer steer without the risk of breaking something (i.e. cables and/or calliper handles). Anyway I've managed to flush out most of the sand and dirt at home and have the steering working again but up to a point. There is still some sand stuck inside the housing as the movement is very rough and gritty. Also it does not smoothly return to the centre position without pressing the opposite lever.

So I need to open the housing and need instructions on how to do this without breaking anything or marring the cosmetics. I am guessing the screws are sitting below the circular "Mirage Drive" cover on top of the housing. Is this just a decal and do I just carefully pry this out with a thin edge? Thanks.

Also trying to find out the same answer to this to try and fix a re-centering issue with the rudder. Bumping this post for attention

Remove the sticker to access the screw holding the assembly together.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

Thanks Matt for the reply.

Can you be more specific as to how do I remove the sticker? I.e.
Is it glued on and do I just pry it out with a thin blade? Or is there another method?
If glued, I assume I just use contact adhesive to stick it back on. Any specific brand recommended for marine application (?) as all I have is regular household ones from hardware stores.

Looking forward to your reply.



Also Thanks to 'dammit' for bumping up the thread up the forum. Cheers.

Yes, held by adhesive. Pry of best possible way (putty knife?) and use contact cement to replace.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

Thanks Matt. Much appreciated.