Pre 1972 rudder

[twshortt]

I have a pre 72 Sunfish in good condition except for the rudder and tiller.
I want to purchase a new rudder and install my pre72 hardware on it. Does anyone know if this is workable? I'm wondering if the new (post 72) rudder is actually a different shape than the old ones, preventing the old brass hardware from fitting properly.

Thanks,
Terry (Key West)

 

[mike4947]

Yes they are a different shape IF you have the older "ping pong paddle" shaped rudder.
And yes you can retrofit the newer blade style rudder onto older hardware. It just takes a little homework and fitting to check positioning and tiller clearance. The thickness is the same. I've done it several times on older boats with broken rudder for myself and other that didn't race the boats and didn't want to pay the substantial amount for all new hardware and hassle of installing a port.

 

[twshortt]

Thanks Mike. In the meantime though, I think I found a good source for an "old style" rudder in good condition from a member of the forum.