Larger Rudder for Greater Stability

Submitted by whr241 on Wed, 04/22/2009 - 00:26
Hi : I found that it was hard to steer my boat in high wind & when using the spinnaker on windy days .....I was not worried about class regs because I do not race, so I bought a piece of 48" X 12" X 3/16" marine grade Aluminum & shaped it,drilled it & put it on the boat . Since modifying I have increased the boats stability & handling ! I am watching the the rudder housing to see if there is undue strain on it. So far so good . I probably could cut the size to 40" to see the performance because 48" is probably overkill & over stress on housing ! Anyone out there have any experience with lengthening the rudder ? Feed back appreciated ! thanks , Bill
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Comments

How much breeze (mph) is the high wind? In breeze, de-power

Submitted by mmittman on Tue, 07/14/2009 - 23:55.
How much breeze (mph) is the high wind? In breeze, de-power your Scot's sails first using the very firm boom vang, then pull on lots of outhaul, last add plenty of cunningham (don't break the main halyard). Also move your jib blocks aft a one setting away from the forward most position. If your rudder kicks up at all, even an inch, you will experience greatly increased weather helm. If your rudder is not pinned or rigged with a good strong lift kit bungee cord, your rudder will always kick up some in breeze. -Michael http://www.FlyingScotSouth.com Michael Mittman FS# 5804, Fleet 23 Corinthian Sailing Club White Rock Lake Dallas, TX

Michael Mittman

FS 5804, Fleet 23

Corinthian Sailing Club

White Rock Lake, Dallas, TX, USA