Should I lock the Wheel?

[Jane]

When at anchor and the water is alittle rough, the wheel swings around, moves freely. Is it better to let the rudder move or lock it in position? Thanks.

 

[Jim Ewing]

Lock it

I always lock it at anchor or docked. You want to avoid banging against the stops. This can damage the steering gear or cause the steering cable to jump out of a sheave from the shock loading.Jim"Prospect"

 

[Matias II Santiago]

Hard to Port/Starboard

In addition to locking the wheel, I also turn the wheel all the way to port or starboard to minimize sailing at anchor.Matias IIS/V Boriken