1) The components may have fractures in the surface of a part that appears after molding, during the cooling process. The manufacturer reports the fractures are cosmetic and do not impact the performance of the part when in use. They also report this "feature" has been present since the original parts were molded for Catalinas decades ago. Over 2000 of these bearing sets have been installed during the construction of new boats. Their normal mode of failure is wear to the inside diameter of the sleeve bearings due to age and use.

We would love to offer a different version of this part that doesn't have any fractures. Unfortunately, there is only one manufacturer and they own the very expensive mold that makes all of the component parts at once. Since this size of the bearing assembly was only used on the Catalina 470, there isn't enough demand for any other manufacturer to be interested in producing them. The reality is that when Catalina received this same part from the manufacturer when your boat was built, they would not have hesitated to install it even if it had a fracture.

2) We have had numerous requests for individual replacement parts for this rudder bearing assembly. Unfortunately, these parts are all molded at the same time in a "single shot" mold. One mold cycle produces one of each part. There is no way to mold just one of the parts.

3) This item does not conform to the shipping table in the Shopping Cart. Additional shipping must be calculated. When you place your order we always call with a shipping quote before billing your card. For a quote in advance, just call 800/959-7245.