Hey, Tony G.,
I thought about that and am still thinking about it, its just hard
to contemplate cutting off what would be hard to replace in a
critical spot. As it is, what I'm calling the rudder tube bearing
cap, the bronze piece that clamps onto the protruding rudder tube,
with three set screws that the tiller head rests on, bottoms out on the
sole. If I cut down the cap on the back side this will lower the cap
and reveal more shaft. Once I cut down the cap ,if I find I still
don't have enough shaft for a positive clamp up I may do just that. Cut the tube down
I have about 5/8" of shaft showing now.By cutting the cap ,I think I'll get another
3/8"- 1/2" so I cant imagine having to cut the rudder tube more than a 1/2".
I do have another concern and that is from using the tiller when it has been loose,
basicaly relying on the keyway, I may have worn down the shaft to some degree,
probably slight but maybe enough to demand more shaft for the required friction
to develop. I may have exascerbated this with the shimming out that has been
my remedy , although temporary, to date. If cutting the cap and possibly the tube does not work
it may be time to consider a new tiller head. If that does'nt work its new shafts for me.
I really hate that wiggle.
Cheers B.
Commander #215