Rudder shaft log repair question

[ddsailor25]

So we have a leak in our rudder rudder shaft log on our 1968 Bristol 29. It's basically just weaping, but it looks like a crack has developed around the base where it attaches to the hull. Whats the best way to repair this? I do not want to remove the rudder. My plan is to clean it all up, spread on some 5200 and then glass over that. Should it be done a different way?

Thanks,
Dave

[Quetzalsailor]

Are you content that it's not caused by a packing requiring snugging or replacement?

If there's no packing and there is a fiberglass tube extending up to the cockpit or higher then the above is a bad guess. Get it dry and clean - clean and dry - and glass it. Don't bother with the 5200. It'll just be a mess that the glass will not adhere to.

If there's a fitting of some sort and a bit of vinyl hose leading up; verify where the leak really is. That vinyl hose and clamps are probably not new.

Are you content that the rudder has not been injured by a misfortune and/or that the crack you've observed is not structurally serious? If there is a fiberglass tube then have a look at the top. There could be enough flexure to crack there, too.

I presume that the boat's out of water; any repair will require that things are and will remain dry.

[ddsailor25]

That's what I originally thought so I replaced the hose and packing last season and it still leaked. On closer inspection I found it was leaking from a crack in the foberglass. Thanks for the tip on not using the 5200, I'll just glass it and then just use a little extra for increased strength.

Dave