Rudder crack 38

Hello Professor

My 38 having is aeons of antifoul removed by initial blasting and manual finish. We have found an 8" horizontal crack overlying the lower tang on stbd side of the rudder. I feel this may have been there some time ,however its a major job to have her hoisted to drop out the post , relaminate and hoist back in . I am minded to do a single cloth 'bandage , faired in for this season, and full rebuild next winter.

There is no movement above or below crack , and no rust.

Whats your view?

Alasdair

Billyon 086

Dear Alasdair

There are thin fairing pieces over the tangs, and based on your description the crack appears to be at the edge of the fairing. This is not likely to be structural, and filling and fairing should be sufficient.  If the crack comes back the reason needs to be found.

Kind regards

Lars

Professor
As ever, many thanks
Will review at first pre regatta lift and scrub, but trust the S&S robust build will prevent a total failure .
Happy New Year
Alasdair