Rudder Seal Maintenance

[BDofMSP]

I like to be proactive about my maintenance, and I'm aware of on area that I have not tackled since I bought my boat in 2020 - the rudders. I had the shafts and props trued when I bought the boat, and I sort of assumed that they replaced the rudder seals when they pulled the rudders. According to the invoices, that's a wrong assumption. I recently replaced my shaft PSS Pro seals, and I'm wondering about the rudder seals as well.

The current seals don't leak, and there is not significant play in the rudder if I wiggle it. Steering is smooth and easy. Here is a picture of one of them

So, is this something I should be proactively replacing? We put about 150 hours a year on her, and since we're indoor for winter now, this would be the time if needed. Also, can anyone identify the type of seal that is currently in place just from the picture?

Thanks for your input.
BD

 

[kapnd]

I can’t identify the seal, but I’d suggest silicone bronze bolts might be an upgrade over what appear to be SS bolts.
I installed a grease fitting below the seal on my boats rudder, to reduce wear in the bushing area.

 

[rslifkin]

I'm also curious what seal setup that is. It almost looks like an add-on seal to replace the packing nut on a conventional rudder stuffing box.

 

[BDofMSP]

Are there any common service intervals for these seals? Or do most people just wait for them to drip or bind and then replace them?

 

[Comodave]

Are there any common service intervals for these seals? Or do most people just wait for them to drip or bind and then replace them?

As far as I know. I have never had to service mine. Keep in mind that the rudder doesn’t spin like a prop shaft and.

 

[BDofMSP]

That makes sense and it's good to hear. I've grown accustomed to being told that I'm not really a responsible owner unless I basically disassemble, maintain, and adjust everything on the boat at least monthly .

The PO kept meticulous records, and I see no history of replacement. So after 24 years, maybe I'll start a conversation with my mechanics to price and plan this work when it's financially convenient.

Thanks!
BD

 

[kapnd]

To add to this, the wear in rudder bushings and seals is dictated by the range of motion. It moves slowly and is never fully rotated, so although often used, traditional packings are a poor candidate for the job.
A lip seal seems like a better choice.
I have removed rudder shafts that were absolutely oval shaped after years of neglect!

 

[BDofMSP]

Rudder shaft, not seal? And still not leaking?

 

[Nautica]

And how far below water line (if at all) are they?