Propellor hitting the rudder....

[captronr]

Have any of you purchased or fabricated a type of prop guard to keep the prop from dinging the rudder? 

In my current slip (which has round D ring attachments), I sometimes nudge against the dock, leave the motor in gear to hold it against the dock, to get a couple of lines attached.  Invariably, the rudder migrates to the prop and dings away.

I have a tiller tamer to install, but I also have new crew occasionally and it's easy for them to hit the rudder with the prop.

I'm tempted to get a 1/4" hunk of aluminum and fab something to keep the prop and rudder from hitting. 

Thanks.
Ron

[alsantini]

On a friends P-21 he had the problem all the time and eventually fabricated a hunk of aluminum so the rudder and the motor turn at the same position.  I know you can buy one from West Marine too.
I have a couple of scars on my rudder from the same issue during the first year I owned the boat.  Usually when I am in tight quarters I turn the motor with the rudder.  Helps make the turn easier.  Our marina has really tight passage ways.  I put the centerboard half down and turn both the rudder and motor together which helps get me in and out.  Sail On.  Is the mastender system back together?

[captronr]

Hi Al,

Rich called me yesterday and parts are now shipped.  He did point out that as far as he knew, I was the only one who managed to put the parts together BACKWARDS.  I asked if that earned me a discount; no, but maybe a plaque recognizing my achievement.  He was fun to visit with...............

I think I'm going to see if the Admiral will advance me enough to buy a new motor.  Then I'll either fashion a link between the rudder and motor, or alternately, fashion an aluminum triangle I can bolt to the horizontal fin on the motor to keep the prop/rudder from dancing together.........

This week is mostly 100's for the highs; heat index at 1:30PM is 103F!

Take care,
Ron