Question

a) Sketch a bearing designed to transfer the full weight of the rudder to the ships structure.

b) Describe the consequences if the rudder carrier bearing surfaces become heavily scored.

c) Describe the consequences of and the action to be taken, if the carrier shatters.

ANS SKETCH

b) The consequences of the rudder carrier becoming heavily scored are that it would put extra load on the steering gear motors, increased amps, a juddering noise would be produced when maneuvering or testing the gear, extra load would also be generated on the bearing surfaces.

c) The consequences and action to be taken if the carrier bearing were to shatter would be that the rudder would probably jam, if in port, the vessel would have to be moved to drydock with the aid of tugs, if at sea, assistance would be required. i.e. a tow.