Rudder Packing Question

[oldskiguy]

Looks like the rudder on my 95 nautique needs repacking. Is there anyway to access it without removing the gas tank? I've got the rear seat completely out but it appears that the gas tank has to be removed as well...thanks

ADMIN EDIT: This post does not conform to the GUIDELINES FOR POSTING IN THE RESTORATIONS SECTION. I am moving it to the Maintenance section.

[SilentSeven]

I had a 97 and never saw an easy way to remove the nut and repack the rudder without pulling the gas tank. However, no formal experience as that job was on my to-do list when I sold the boat.

[shag]

On that boat I believe it will make it much easier to remove the tank. Unless you have 4 elbows lol. Make sure you have something to keep the rudder from falling out on the ground accidentally

[oldskiguy]

Thanks did end up removing the tank and cleaning everything up. Quick question: there is a brace on the starboard side that holds the steering cable and there seems to be some play in this. Is this normal? Here is a very short video showing the playhttps://photos.app.goo.gl/15UXMcrqT6gBAW5T9 Thanks again for the help

[shag]

Thanks did end up removing the tank and cleaning everything up. Quick question: there is a brace on the starboard side that holds the steering cable and there seems to be some play in this. Is this normal? Here is a very short video showing the playhttps://photos.app.goo.gl/15UXMcrqT6gBAW5T9 Thanks again for the help

Maybe someone else will chime in here, but I think a lil play is normal... Not 100% for sure.. I think when I did a boat years ago that I had some play... But if able, and now that you have access - if it's replaceable - now would be the time for sure... Do you have dealer close you could confirm with?

[SilentSeven]

Mine had a little play like that. I can't say if it's "expected" or not... Didn't seem to impact performance.