This question is for Jerry or anyone who has experience with both the old style M17 rudder with the "stepped forward" leading edge below the hull, and the newer style "straight edge" raiseable rudder.
I have the older style and am in the process of refinishing and resealing it. The seam between the main body of the rudder and the attached leading edge portion (with 3 - 1/2" wood dowels) had opened and was allowing moisture into the wood. In order to reseal it, I have removed it to clean the surfaces. I am wondering if this would be a good time to convert it to the raiseable "straight edge" type. It has been an inconvenience a few times not being able to raise the rudder, but it is my understanding that the "stepped forward" rudder was the original Lyle Hess design to better balance the helm. It certain is well balanced. My question is how much balance would I lose going to the newer design? Thanks, Larry Yake M17, #200 Tullamore _______________________________________________ http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/montgomery_boats
