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F.A.Q

JP3 Self-aligning rudder bearings were studied to limit friction in the steering systems due to:

  • the flexing of the rudder stocks during navigation.
  • the deformation of the hull structure under the rigging strain.

Alignment is ensured by an Ertalyte inner ball with or without stainless steel or plastic needles or with plastic rollers.

Our design office, after having calculated the lateral loads that apply on your rudder, will specify the most appropriate type of bearings to the configuration of your boat.

The inner ball is made of low water absorption plastic so it swells just a little. It doesn’t affect the functioning of the bearing.

The aluminium housing in would swell if anodizing is lost.

To check the anodizing of the aluminium housing use an ohmmeter. If you can read some resistance value, the case is not anodized.

Inner balls are possibly worn out, so must be changed. The bottom ones are often the first worn.

During the change of the inner ball, it wort it to check the condition of the aluminium housing.

It could be not anodized any more or corroded.

The minimum maintenance frequency is once every 5 years or earlier in case of leak or play. To access to the bearings and take them off, you must drop the rudder. While the rudder is taken off, check its condition and check if it is not pricked, perforated or corroded.

To download the JP3 bearing installation and maintenance instructions:

 

Installation instruction

The bearing references are engraved on them. Either on the outside or inside. The reference will allow us to provide you with the correct bearing for replacement.

Yes, you must mount the bearings in such a way that the slot is in the boat axis.

A few drops of silicone oil between the inner ball and the housing are enough to fix the problem. This is a lubricant that helps with vertical sliding of the bearing.

If the steering head moves abnormally, you must check that the various elements such as the stop ring or the nut are properly tight. It is also necessary to check the ball bearings condition. If they are worn, they have to be changed. These stainless steel bearings are maintenance-free.

It is necessary to check the tightness of the rudder screws. In fact, they allow a good transmission. The broaching screw must be tightened well so as not to dull the material of the tiller as well as the stock. Moreover, it can be damaged if the tightening is poor.