At least the Catalina 27 rudder is partially balanced. It is no big deal to me as my 27 has wheel steering. However, while a little weather helm is a good thing, my old Catalina 22 (that had a totally unbalanced outboard rudder) was a real bear to steer when going to weather in strong winds. Sometimes, when I had no particular place to go, I found myself tacking just to give my arm a break. I even installed a longer than standard tiller that was a little less tiring. However, when I began the search for my C-27, I had three must-haves: Roller furling, wheel steering, and a diesel inboard. In a message dated 3/29/2010 6:48:20 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [email protected] writes:
Rob, The area of the rudder that is forward of the post counteracts the the force on the back of the rudder, making the boat "easier" to steer. As you noticed these boats simply do not go in a straight line when you let go of the tiller, but if you think that is bad, just wait until you are going backwards under power. Bob Stockley Sundance #2436 --- In [email protected]_ (mailto:[email protected]) , "RobAdkins" <[email protected]> wrote: > > hi all, > > upon first sailing my c27 i noticed the tiller can get away from me mighty quickly if i'm not careful. this was not the case with my old columbia which had a keel mounted rudder. i thought a bit, yes it did hurt, and after drawing pictures in my head i've come to the conclusion that a small percentage of the rudder, on my c27, is foreword of the rudder post. this would explain it's violent tendencies to leap from my hand when executing a sharp turn and it's equally violent resistance to coming back to center after said turn is complete. i'm wondering if anyone has any clue as to why this design "feature" exists. it does make the helm more responsive/sensitiv upon first sailing my c27 i noticed the tiller can get away from me mighty quickly if i'm not careful. t >
