Steering linkage not bolted. Problem?

[Roamad]

While inspecting my hydraulic steering today I noticed the bolts connecting the linkage arm between the two rudder posts are just hanging loose by gravity — no nuts on them (photo below). I assume they should have nuts attached? We’ve owned the boat less than a year and I never noticed this, nor did the surveyor when we bought the boat.

[Roamad]

Hmmm, 50 views and no responses. I’m going to assume these bolts should have nuts on them and carry on.

[donradcliffe]

I think you answered your own question, given the consequences of the bolts popping out.

[Dsanduril]

I can only tell you that on our boat there are Nyloc nuts in a similar position.

[Sailmonkey]

Those should have nylon nuts with fender washer and a drop of blue loctite

[Roamad]

Thanks all! Yes, I’m headed out today to source nyloc nuts for these.

[BruceS]

If the bolt is through the double tongue side it may have thread in the second side & be locktited in that? I've seen some that just have a pin, washer each side & then an R clip. No thread at all. Maybe inspect first if you haven't?

[wingless]

Mine has bolts, washers and nylock nuts.

Murphy has already proven that unrestrained bolt will only pop out at the worst possible time.

[Roamad]

I tackled the fix today and went with flat washers, nyloc nuts and a drop of blue locktite on both. Neither side of the linkage arm is threaded and both sides had the bolts just resting in there, loose. Amazing! I feel lucky that I discovered this before it came apart.