Hobie 14 Rudder Repair

So I bought my first Hobie 14 and I am looking to restore the rudders first since they need much love. Ive seen people use epoxy but has anyone done this before with good lasting results? I want to sand them, repair the jagged edges using epoxy (?) and then sand the whole thing smooth again and paint it/seal it. I know not to go too thick or it wont fit back in the cam.





What epoxy to use? I have Loctite Heavy Duty. Will this work to fill in the jagged edges? I know folks here love West System but is it that much better?
Help!








FishBones

I started the sanding process. Using a random orbital sander 80 grit to start. Thinking I need to go to 60 or even 40 as its taking a while, than work my way down to 220. Still don't know what I am going to use to fill in the edges with.

They look like lexan rudders. If so, then epoxy isn't going to adhere to them with any lasting results. There's not much you can do. I would just use a file to clean up any jagged spots on the leading edges or down at the tips. The damage at the trailing edges isn't going to make a huge difference.

Save up your money and keep an eye out on ebay for a pair of EPO or fiberglass rudders - they are much better. Also watch out when sailing an old set of rudders like that. If they've sat out in the sun and gotten a lot of UV damage, they may snap off in high winds.

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I haven't seen Lexan rudders chip like that - they may be ABS plastic that the original 14 rudders were made from (prior to ~ 1977). If they are - they're old and brittle. There's a good chance that they'll unexpectedly break off right below the rudder casting when you're sailing.

I agree with srm's recommendations. These rudders are not worth spending a whole lot of time on. Clean up the chips with a rasp / file to remove sharp edges and "corners". Keep your eyes peeled for a replacement set - preferably EPOs.

Thank you everyone. This just adds on to the fact that my Hobie 14 is falling apart. I have since decided to sell it and put the money towards a Hobie Pro Angler 14.

Thank you everyone for the help.

FB

Also if anyone needs any parts for a Hobie 14 around New Port Richey / Clearwater area let me know, I might part it out.