Rudder bearing questions

[GeoffV]

As my rudder bearing change approaches:
I need to know what grease to use when replacing the lower bearing. The Jefa video does not say.
Also the rubber split gaiter which needs to be replaced at the base of the rudder internally on my 2014 37' cruiser needs a glue. I emailed SVC or whatever their initials are that sell the gaiter 3 weeks ago and have not had a reply.
Any help much appreciated.

[Yngmar]

No grease on the roller bearing. Only on the outside of the toroid between it and the housing. You can use silicone or calcium grease there (winch grease will do fine).

The gaiter is neoprene rubber so should be neoprene glue, but there should've been a tube of the correct glue in the pack with the gaiter.

[GeoffV]

Thanks for the info. Yes I have read the warnings about grease in the roller. I am really surprised SVB didn't reply to my request for confirmation regarding the glue.

[sunshine]

Thanks for the info. Yes I have read the warnings about grease in the roller. I am really surprised SVB didn't reply to my request for confirmation regarding the glue.

If you buy replacement bearings direct from Jefa in Denmark they will include a small package of grease.  Also much cheaper this way than the UK distributor or SVB.  Have a look on Jefa website . https://jefa.com/ftp/old_boat_spare_parts/Bavaria/.

Pricelist is a bit out of date but indicative anyway
https://jefa.com/ftp/rudder/pricelists/Price%20list%20Bavaria%20Spare%20parts%2001-12-2022.pdf

Replace top and bottom and maybe also the lock ring at the same time.  I put the roller bearing on the bottom of mine and its definitely an upgrade on the original plain bearing.

[MagicalArmchair]

Check out my write up here:

https://www.sailingmirage.uk/blog/seizing-up-rudder-on-passage-how-to-replace-your-rudder-bearings/

I only nearly squashed one crew member swapping them out.... 

[GeoffV]

Does the top bearing replace by the same method as the lower bearing?
As it is not mentioned in your article.

[MagicalArmchair]

Hey Geoff,

Yes, it certainly does - just turn, and out it comes. The top bearing has a much, much easier life than the bottom one. We did replace it, but we really didn't need to as it was like new.