After a great deal of internet searching I found a supplier of 36mm diameter Marine grade stainless steel rod that was suitable for the new rudder shaft.
I only need 1.4m but of the two suppliers I found one would supply a 2m length, the other 3m. At over £120 per metre I chose the shorter!
I have now delivered it to Morse Systems of Ashford in Kent for cutting, welding, grinding and drilling.
They are also going to make a purpose designed (by me so I hope it works) lower bearing. This is made from Acetal, a special plastic that does not absorb water – did you know that nylon absorb water? Neither did I.
Lastly they are going to manufacture a new s/s shaft for the roller reefing system which got bent in hurricane Ivan.
Saving Anne Marie 