Daniel, A couple of observations - some gleaned from less than amusing experiences : DO NOT TRAIL your boat with the rudder in place unless you want : 1. the rudder GONE - bounced off, pivot bolt fell out -OOOPS - etc. 2.the blade ground to a nub - 'I thought I had it tied up ...' 3. the rudder gudgeons and pintles plus all other pieces of the rudder assembly to experience excess wear and tear they were never designed for. Think of driving down the road with a favorite violin strapped to the hood - Bad Form. If your "mast carrier" is attached to the rudder attached to the boat while riding down the highway banging on the transom - you have the 'Tear up The Transom Trifecta' lets leave the rudder attached (see #1,2,3 above AND add the weight of the 1/2 the rig and mast carrier to exacerbate the situation). Most 15 trailers are sprung a bit stiff for the actual load as it is from what I have experienced. I am one opinionated Full of BS ol guy - but I have seen MANY ugly things happen to boats whilst trailered because someone was not aware of the consequences. - When I was in the business - it made me a living repairing and selling "lost/damaged parts" - I didn't like making a living at other peoples misfortune - so a word of caution. PS I bet we don't know that the rudder is damaged or GONE til we arrive at the beautiful destination ready to have a fun day of NOT sailing with the family or friends ! 'I didn't see it fall off the boat.....' - it does happen - why risk it. Jerry's wood (Royce's) rudders are excellent - better than a heavy plastic one. See paragraph above 'one opinionated.... ' Good luck with your Old Wood Rudder Blade it is a winner! - BTW- I have stalled all my rudders, on the 7-11,15,17 and all the non M-Boats I have owned too - EVERY one of them! G - Full of It - O M-17 #316 -Nurse I need my meds!