I can understand how you feel, but I remember reading earlier posts regarding this matter, it is normal, there isn't any lock nut , the metal plates are threaded and act as fasteners. As for leaking, I check all RTR boats with anything that can break loose or leak before maiden just as you have done.
https://forums.offshoreelectrics.com/...not-have-bolts
As for the leak, you might have to seal it with either silicone or epoxy. Many people don't like silicone INSIDE their hull, because it leaves oily residue that prevents any good epoxing needs. Before doing that I would check if the rudder is firmly attached to the transom. If you don't want to apply anything inside, I would loosen the rudder bracket and put silicone OUTSIDE where the bracket is attached to the transom, I do that to all my boats now, a little is enough, don't need to have an oozing blob.
just my $.02
Have fun and keep us posted!
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