Destroyer wheel with a hinge

[Ron]

I have a 1994 C320 with a 40" Edson destroyer wheel. It is very difficult to quickly get around it. Rather than switch to a smaller wheel, I have been considering a hinged wheel. Lewmar makes one. Has anyone tried one ? thanks,Ron

 

[Tim C350 April IV]

At the boat show

We looked at one at the boat show, and one installed on some new Hunter (I think) at the Seattle Boat show yesterday.Really pretty neat product that folding wheel. Rather pricey though. Thought it would run about $600+ USD for a 36" wheel - although I think the leather kit came with it. We don't tie up stern-too all that much, so I figure I can take the wheel on and off a whole lot of times before the $600+ seems affordable.Also saw a new Beneteau with an interesting arrangement where the whole wheel and hub swiveled around the pedestal post to the fore and aft position.Tim BroganApril IV C350 #68Seattle

 

[Ron]

Thanks Tim

There are some great ideas out there.......if you have some money to spend. Although I do anchor alot, the main concern is the freedom to get myself forward of the pedestal in the event of an urgent situation. Even coming into the dock would be easier with the wheel out of the way.Ron

 

[Tim C350 April IV]

Not a quick disconnect

Ron - The Lewmar unit that I saw wouldn't be considered a quick disconnect attachment.For each of the two folding sections, there is a 6 inch piece of threaded plastic that has to be screwed into place - or out of place - to lock or unlock the folding section. It would probably be 10 to 12 turns locked to open - not something to be messing with when you want to move forward in a hurry.Tim BroganApril IV C350 #68Seattle

 

[Ron]

thanks again Tim

Something else to consider.......thanks for the update.Ron