Rudder for my 28' TE Flush Deck

[Copacabana]

I own a 28' TE Flush Deck and a good friend has a older "engine box" 28' TE which puts mine to shame in close quarter maneuvering. Can I replace my rudder to the older style? Why did they change it?

Thank you

Marcio
Copacabana 28' TE Flush Deck 6LP 315 Yanmar

[Carl]

Do a search here on "rudder" and I think you will get your answer. Short story is that with the big difference in weight distribution of the flush deck versus the motor box, Albin discovered that with the full size rudder that the boat could be "over steered" causing the bow to dip. The cut down rudder eliminated that issue at the expense of close quarter maneuvering. Use of the bow thruster should give you the same end result. I too have a flush deck and find I never need the bow thruster unless the wind is pushing me around. Just takes some practice and patience.