Rudder Stops for the radial wheel

[Paul Nebeling]

Here's the problem.My 1978 Hunter 27 has an Edson wheel steering system. I think it's a modification. My biggest reason for thinking this is that there are NO stops for the radial wheel attached to the rudder post.My question is what's a good way to put stops in? I've got ideas, but would rather hear of "something that works" rather than "I hope this works".I recently bought a Navico WP100 (now Simrad WP10) autopilot and would hate to have it spin the chain off the sprocket like I did on the trial sail.All help is appreciated,Paul Nebelings/v Doghouse1978 Hunter 27

 

[Paul]

for what it's worth...

I don't know if this is any help or not, but my 336 (with factory Edson quadrant steering) doesn't have stops on the quadrant either.The stops on my boat are built into the rudder post assembly. I found that out one day when I had to use the emergency tiller.Paulsv Escape Artist.

 

[Paul Nebeling]

Interesting thought, but how would I check it?

It seems like I would have to disconnect the steering gear from the radial wheel and turn the rudder with the emergency tiller. If it goes way beyond the point of being reasonable (I would say about 45 degrees) that would be an indication that there's nothing there.Then again, your suggestion makes sense because I believe this was a tiller steered boat when it was built.

 

[C. Timmons]

Don't think they put stops in at factory

It appears that a previous owner of my Hunter 33 installed stops made from 2X4 squares screwed two deep into the underside of the deck. This was not ideal, because there is just enough give that with enough force the quadrant will pass by and run off of the chain. (A guest must have used the helm for a handhold when stepping off at the dock and must have given it quite a pull).The installation was with simple wood screws through the first block into the underside of the deck, with the second block being screwed into the first. I intend to move the blocks slightly closer and glass over to reduce give.