[Heps]

Team,

Didn't see this problem in a quick search, but we had the boat on the hard for new electronics and while up took a look at why the steering has been very stiff.  My starboard rudder was so bound up (on the upper rudder post bearing) that it could barely be turned by two guys.  Had to use hydraulic  jack and lever to work it out.  Once cleaned up it's turning smoothly, but it looks like someone had to do this before and potentially used a grinder to cut off the upper bearing.  Looks like the bronze bearing is binding with the stainless rudder post somehow after the grease dries up/works out.  They both appear to be straight.

Anyone else seen this problem?  What should the maintenance schedule be for re-greasing those upper bearings against the rudder post?  Or has anyone tried to retrofit this upper bearing (e.g. TidesMarine Upper Rudder Bearing-Standard (URB-STD)?

Thanks,
John