Adding a fourth gudgeon to the transom

[Van Sheppard]

Hi,

I had a failure of the top gudgeon on the transom of the boat while sailing downwind in big breeze last week.  I'm about to replace all the fittings on the transom and I recall that some people have added a fourth fitting at the top of the current arrangement. 

I'd like to hear from some of you that have done this.  It seems to me that you will need to rearrange the fitting on the top of the rudder and also adjust where the current gudgeon is at the top of the transom in order to accomodate the additional fitting.  I think I'll also need a longer pin.  Anything else I should be thinking about?  Also, is this a class legal change?

Cheers,

Van.

[Clifford Begnaud]

Van,
As for the legality of the added gudgeon I think this paragraph from the rules addresses it:
"ARTICLE OD-V: OPTIONS, ALTERATIONS AND REPLACEMENTS
1. Alterations to the boat and hardware that meet the intent of Article OD-I and do not materially effect sailing performance are allowed. Examples include: retractable rudders (not to be retracted while racing), and vents or alterations in interior outfitting which do not reduce hull weight or alter hull balance."

I added a 4th gudgeon just below the top one, nothing had to be moved and the stock length pin still works fine.
Cliff
Underdog #126