Thanks all. Good news is that I have sourced a very sexy rudder and blade housing for about $110 on Trademe. Its one of those springloaded ones that need only a single cord to elevate it (SmartTrack or something) - will post a pic over the weekend. First priority is the rod which is a buggar co I was getting really sentimental about that one. I always stow my stuff during surf launches but we hadn't engaged suicide mode when the set cames through - besides stowing things on the Expedition at sea is interesting...