However, what became apparent, after the riveting was finished, was that the extra length created by the cap on the overall stern length impinged on the clearance required to remove the rudder from its pintals, patently vital for transport, maintenance etc.
The problem was solved by determining the amount of obstruction on the top surface of the rudder over its
rotary transit as the helm was moved to the limit starboard and port.
Having marked this out a hole saw was used to remove the obstruction on both sides. This allowed removal of the rudder.
A flat ended tubular gusset was inserted and welded into place to make the hollow structure of the rudder
waterproof.
Here the gusset has been welded into place. I was quite pleased that I didn't burn holes in the 2mm plate
which, in my experience, is difficult when the plate is this thin.
The following shots show the heel of the hull dropping into the gusset as the rudder is lifted to clear the
pintels.
The sequence hopefully illustrates, at least in part, the rudder now in a position to be removed.
