What the Heck is this called?

[Glenn Bevensee]

Okay, here's the $64,000 question... I know the rudder pivots on the pintle, and gudgeon. What is the name of the hinged piece at the TOP of the rudder, where the tiller attaches? In my case, my tiller seems to be a piece of one inch diameter tubing. I debated replacing it, but can't figure out where to find that hinged piece. Called every boat part supply place I can find, they seem fixated on pintles and gudgeons. Any thoughts?

 

[Ben Allen]

Here's One Answer

Tiller StrapsBen

 

[Glenn Bevensee]

Re: Here's One Answer...

Okay, for the NEXT question, my current tiller looks like a one inch diameter piece of tubing. Is this original? Can I replace it, somehow, with a nicer wooden one? And, if so, who would stock the Tiller Strap for the new tiller, since it seems they don't come with it? An Edson wheel is starting to look a lot easier, by comparison...

 

[Mike]

I think its called the....

head stock. You don't say what type of boat you have, but I am assuming that it is some type of O'Day or from another manufacturer that you can no longer contact.You can usually find a small machine shop to custom make a piece. Or if you don't want to go to that expense, either West Marine or Defender have a big selection of hardware; they act as brokers for most of the major manufacturers and can get most anything. I have found both of them to be remarkably helpful in finding parts that I don't know the name of. One suggestion, get their latest catalog before you call so you can see a picture of what they think you are referring to. Even if they don't have an exact replacement, you can usually adapt something to fit.

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

I'd call it a Tiller Strap too

Glenn, I agree that part is called the strap. If you have an O'day you might luck out by calling Rudy Nickerson - check the archive for the number.Justin - O'day Owners' Web

 

[Rob Buchanan]

Rudder hardware

Glen - Look in Schaefer Marine catalog, near the back, with the rest of their rudder hardware. I don't the size of your boat, but J-24 fittings might work for you. Look up layline.com, also.Happy hunting!

 

[Russ Marcks]

Replacement tiller

I happen to have an O25 and broke the original tiller. The original was a straight wood tiller. I ended up using a tiller from a 25' Catalina. My wife and I like it better than the original since it curves upward and makes it easier to use.In short, unless you're trying to restore or keep everything original, there's nothing sacred about a tiller. West Marine and many other chandleries sell tillers in their catalogues for about $50.Russ