heavyduty tiller straps

[jeff]

i just got my catalina direct owners manual/parts catalog for my 1988 c22. i see that they offer a new tiller and heavy duty straps. i did notice the flex in the original straps, the boat was new to me last season. has anyone changed over to the heavyduty straps and new tiller and what is your opinion of the change. thanks, jeff.

 

[Chris Athanitis]

Yes I have made some modifications

I had to replace my tiller. I picked it up at Boat US for $50. A couple of concerns.Be very accurate in drilling the hole. Lining up three holes through two inches of wood and two steel plates is pretty tough. Use a drill press if available.I would definitely use the heavier straps. It will stiffen the feel of the tiller. I issue may be that the tiller is a bit wider than the original and now you have space between the straps and the rudder causing slapping sound when on the hook. My solution to that was wraping a small diameter line around the strap creating a type of bushing. It makes for a snug fit and it was easy to do. If it wears out as I move the tiller up and down over time I can just replace it with some more line...no big deal! Hope that helps!