Save-A-Boat - The Forum for Plastic Classic Rebuilds!

Although the Alden Challengers are glass hull and deck, the rudders were built of wood. One bolt had sheered off and another was just hanging on to what was left of the bronze after nearly 50 years. After removing the old parts, I got what I needed in new bronze at Rockport Marine in town. All in all, not a bad project.

With the new fastenings installed and tight in the bronze (I went up a size in one bolt and the #28 wood screws) and everything back together, all the play is gone. This repair will outlast me.

The inspector in the lower left hand corner seems to approve! Looks very pretty.

From what I have seen the rudder was the last part of the boat to make the transition to fiberglass. This has always puzzled me.

Looks like you did exactly what needed to be done.