Sailing Uma · video

What this video covers

The crew of the 50-year-old sailboat Uma removes the rudder to inspect for water damage and potential bushing failure.1:18 After disconnecting the steering quadrant and autopilot tiller arm from inside the cockpit locker, they remove the bronze cap at the base of the skeg and slide the rudder assembly out.3:17 The rudder blade, which the crew expected to be foam-cored, proves to be solid fiberglass, showing no signs of delamination or internal water saturation.15:45 Conversely, core samples taken from the skeg reveal saturated foam and filler, necessitating future excavation and repair.20:12 The project also involves filling unused deck holes with epoxy to prepare for new hardware installations, utilizing G10 backing plates for future through-bolted deck gear.7:27 The rudder removal confirms the structural integrity of the stainless steel rudder post and blade, though the skeg requires further remediation to address the trapped moisture.12:52

More from Sailing Uma

Solar Sponsor Backed Out Before Sailing Around the World !Sept 2026Our boat won’t look the same after this | Step 495Aug 2026The ONE Thing We Disagreed on This Entire Refit | Step 494Aug 2026We Owe You The Full StoryJul 2026

From Sailing Uma — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.