On Hustler (Ariel #223), we replaced the rudder 2 times. The first time, we duplicated the original. We lost that rudder in medium air with the chute up. The second replacement was made from aluminum (may have been stainless-my brother-in-law handled getting it done) with the shaft and rudder welded together. This was done in 1994-1995 and is still holding together nicely. Designed the rudder to be narrower, not as tall, but a good 3 inches longer. Made the boat handle much better and took a lot of weight out of the back of the boat.
Scott Shackelford
Ex-Hustler hull #223
Now-Sundancer
C&C 24 #232