Rudder replacement using a stainless shaft
"I just replaced my glass post rudder with a new SS shaft rudder. The SS rudder weighs in about 5 pounds heavier than the class minimum of 30. Judging from what I have read and seen with the glass shaft rudder posts, going to SS was an easy decision. Can the glass shafts be patched back together? in most cases yes. Mine was not only split at the top, but had vertical splits down low around the lower bearing area."
"We raced last year in some pretty heavy storms, (50+ MPH) [ed: Winter Vashon and other races took their toll around here in the last few years] and there is no way I could feel comfortable with a patched together glass post in those conditions, especially when you consider the responsibility of keeping our crews safe. Perhaps if we primarily only Buoy raced, that would not be as big of factor, but I doubt it."
"As for the new rudder, it looks great, I found the Foss company is great to work with. For those that don't know, they own the original rudder mold for the Olson 30."
"On the question of using the elliptical rudder as a replacement, how many national championships have been won with it? As far as cost between the two, about $1600+ for an elliptical and around $700 for an original with a SS post."
Rob Webster, "High Flyer"
Original Replacement rudders can be purchased through:
The Foss Company
Contact Name: Don
849 West 18th St.
Costa Mesa CA. 92627
PH: 949-646-0244
Fax 949-646-8261
e-mail fossfoam@aol.com