Tiller slop/play

[Guest]

What is the process for removing the "play" from the tiller? The tiller on our C27 is like the steering wheel on an old Chrysler New Yorker. Are there adjustments that can be made to remove the play?

 

[Joe]

tiller play

If the source of the play is in the hinge of tiller fitting you might try shimming it with something thin like a plastic playing card. The bolt that hinges the tiller could be a little worn...try a better fitting bolt or a few washers. I have a little play in mine but it doesn't bother me because I know the connection is solid.Now, if the source of the wobble is in the rudder stock or its connection to the fitting you have a more serious problem. You might have to haul the boat out and remove the rudder to examine all problem areas. There are some pretty good articles on this process. Try sailnet.com if no one else responds or you can't find anygthing in the archives.

 

[capt Doug]

tiller slop

I have a 27 with the same problem. The standard bolt that holds the tiller to the top of the rudder post is alittle small. The hole in the rudder post starts to wear and slop accures. You have to redrill the cap and post to 1/2 inch. Use a good stainless steel bolt. The trick to this is doing the job with out pulling the boat out of the water. That cap and bolt holds the rudder in place. It might be better to do the job when the boat is uot for bottom paint. Good luck.