Bruce,
The preferred bearing for replacement is manufactured by Jefa and sold by PYI inc.
The link to the bearing is:
http://www.pyiinc.com/index.php?action=5-2002/5-2002-j-boats§ion=news
This bearing is far better than the original Harken bearing that came with the boat. The attachment has a dimensional drawing of teh bearing.
One thing I recommend is that before installing the bearing you put O-Rings in the grooves on the outside diameter of the bearing. Grease them up a bit and this will prevent you from having to use the set screws that seem to always work loose. Depending on how loose fit you bearing tube is use one of these sizes O-rings to help fill the gap, -265, -262, or -258, the larger the number the larger the O-ring.
You may also find it necessary to build up the rudder stock for the new bearing. To do this use your old bearing as a form. Again lightly grease up the Inside diameter of the original Harken bearing, put it back on the rudder stock with it a bit high on the stock and then pour epoxy between it and the rudder stock.
I replaced my bearing 6 years ago and have had no bearing problems since, and have eliminated the lock screws.
Bill Wildner
Mr. Bill’s Wild Ride
Hull 276 |