Hello Ariel/Commander friends-

New Ariel owner (hull 318). I've learned a tremendous amount from the collective wisdom here. Lots of little projects--mostly woody ones, and will post pictures--mahogany forward hatch, companionway slats, coaming boards, etc. My brother-in-law and I sailed it home from Boothbay, ME to Portland in one long fabulous day. I got 3-4 more august/sept. days out in Casco Bay before the tired genoa blew into pieces. It had a good run (52 years!). One issue: There was always slop/lash in rudder that felt ominous. I finally discovered the source: no bearing in the rudder post down where it comes out of the hull (the one at the top was present). I've seen lots of picture of Ariel rudders, but none with a lower bearing. Is this normal? When I reinstall I plan to push a nylon bearing up into the hole in the bottom of the hull and fit the rudder. I'm expecting a big improvement. Any similar observations/experiences out there?

Cheers-
bruce