maybe playing in the storm swells was a bad idea?

M

moonie

New Member
Took my '77 sunfish out today for our 3rd voyage into the ocean, and managed to break my wooden rudder in 2 pieces. Since we had lost steering, we couldn't help but to capsize in the swells- which promptly rammed my upper spar into the sand. It's bent pretty badly, can I keep sailing on it even though it's bent- or is its strength comprimised?
For the sake of my wallet I hope that I can keep 'er cheap and bent :)
Has anyone had their fiberglass rudders snap in large waves?
 
I had similar experience in Lake Michigan with bent spar. Mine's bent about 4" out of "true". I've contined to sail it for 5 years with no problems. I think when you attempt to straighten it you may weaken it. You will see used spars and masts for sale here and on ebay for reasonable $.
 
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