So Bill Perry (on another thread) brought up an interesting point about his 216 rudder and how he needed to keep it under control while raising the main in a single handed scenario...Well I thought about my rudder and my rudder takes some effort to turn. In fact, I can sail a course on the main alone and never even touch the rudder once set. Even with weather helm it remains in position...
My assumption was that was by design and that it was just different from a typical tiller that was loose and needed constant attention. About a month ago I reseated my rudder assembly and someone mentioned something about the bearings going bad inside the assembly and not to replace them unless it was needed.
And there is my sudden realization. Have I been sailing my 216 for the past 3 years with a stiff rudder that was actually supposed to swivel loosely?
My assumption was that was by design and that it was just different from a typical tiller that was loose and needed constant attention. About a month ago I reseated my rudder assembly and someone mentioned something about the bearings going bad inside the assembly and not to replace them unless it was needed.
And there is my sudden realization. Have I been sailing my 216 for the past 3 years with a stiff rudder that was actually supposed to swivel loosely?