Hobie Cat Forums

Just starting to put the AI back together ready for Easter weekend. Whilst checking it over, I noticed that the rudder lever has a lot of play in it and scrapes across the deck under the end of the lever. To rectify this, I am turning up a bronze upside down top hat (underside of the 36mm rim will be the top face) that is threaded on the outside (16mm) and has a large washer and nut that holds it in situe through the deck. The tiller shaft is a nice snug fit with easy movement, but no play. I am going to cut off the tube dangling down inside the hull ,drill it out to 16.5mm , file everything flat so that the new assembly sits in there squarely and then bolt it in place with sealant under the top rim. This should give a nice smooth steering action and reduce the amount of water entering the hull through the current oval hole that the tiller shaft sits in. I will post some pictures when it is finished.

Haven't had time to sort out the trampolines, spray guards or the hammock yet, will get back on them over the spring. Have decided to go with soft tramps, just need to get them made now.

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Either lead, follow, or get the hell out of the way!

I haven't had an issue with mine to date. It just works so I haven't touched it. I work on the principle 'If it ain't broke, don't stuff with it'. Looking forward to seeing the steering lever mod though just in case.
Is it warm enough to get the AI wet yet mate ?

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Don't take life too seriously................it ain't permanent.

It is warm enough, but I had a hip op 5 weeks ago and have been reluctant to get too carried away until the physio gives me the thumbs up. I plan to spend Easter weekend getting back on the water. I will post some pics when I get it finished.
It was working ok, but was wearing away at the deck and had ovalled the hole badly fore-aft. I did think about simply building up the plastic and repairing it, but Decided to do it once and do it properly.
It will probably upset the balance now and have a permanent list to port..

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Either lead, follow, or get the hell out of the way!

Are you talking about the boat or your hip rokraider?
A mate of mine had a full hip replacement last November. He has been out a couple of times in my spare AI recently and reports no problems!

I'm not aware of any problem with mine (rudder not hip) - but would be interested in seeing any photos of the completed mod. You never know.......

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Mickey
2011 AI Golden Papaya
2011 TI Golden Papaya

Well you asked for pics, so here is one to keep you going.



I have found an improvement in my cornering speeds with this upgrade..

I will post some pictures of the steering mod when I get it finished.

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Either lead, follow, or get the hell out of the way!

That's one hell of a hull crack mate. I'd be hitt'n Hobie up for a warranty claim.

Seriously though, I hope the repairs work out well for both of you.

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Don't take life too seriously................it ain't permanent.

Started fitting the bronze upgrade today, I need to get a new handle as the threads are not good in it. Looks as though it will work nicely and feels very smooth.

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Either lead, follow, or get the hell out of the way!

Great job rokraider - great photos too
Could you turn one up for anyone else who might have the same problem?
It may well be a design weakness in them all

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Mickey
2011 AI Golden Papaya
2011 TI Golden Papaya

I don't see why not. Wont be cheap though, the bronze bar is pretty pricey and it is quite time consuming.

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Either lead, follow, or get the hell out of the way!

Yes - I don't doubt that it is both pricey and time consuming - not to mention the required skill to do it
Personally speaking, if I found I needed this fix, I would appreciate knowing that I could call on you to do the job and pay you for your time, materials and effort.

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Mickey
2011 AI Golden Papaya
2011 TI Golden Papaya

Well, If anyone finds themselves needing one, feel free to contact me. Happy to help out.

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Either lead, follow, or get the hell out of the way!

Finally got the AI back on the water this weekend. First test since carrying out the steering and Aka pin bush modifications. It has definitely improved the way it sails. There is no more clunking from the hinges on the Akas when the Ama is airborn or just skimming the surface, it is now silky smooth and silent.
The steering mod has made the steering a lot lighter and smoother.
Managed to shoot some pictures of some of the seals and some racing in the harbour whilst out there. Nothing special, but if you want to check them out, visit:
www.rokraider.zenfolio.com
Anything with boats or seals has the password hisc .
If there is anything there you fancy, open the picture, move the mouse to the left hand side of the image a menu will open that allows you to download the image.

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Either lead, follow, or get the hell out of the way!

Great photos mate. They brought back some UK memories. Those shots of the Moths defy physics. Amazing stuff.

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Don't take life too seriously................it ain't permanent.