Does anyone have advice regarding adding wheel steering to a 1978 Catalina 27? I have a full width mainsail sheet traveler mounted on the front edge of the lazaret (in front of the hatch) and I dont see how to keep these lines out of the way. Any information would be appreciated.
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Convert to mid boom sheeting, also
This subject has been discussed and argued quite a bit over the years amd you'll find a lot of opinions on the conversion by searching the archives. I personally don't think the change is worth the expenditure but, if you are intent on spending the 2-3 thousand bucks to make the conversion, then go ahead and relocate the traveller for conversion to a mid-boom mainsheet system. It will open up the cockpit and give you more room for the wheel. Garhaurer has a good conversion kit, probably cost you another 500 or so, that will increase purchase to 6:1 to accommodate greater load.
This subject has been discussed and argued quite a bit over the years amd you'll find a lot of opinions on the conversion by searching the archives. I personally don't think the change is worth the expenditure but, if you are intent on spending the 2-3 thousand bucks to make the conversion, then go ahead and relocate the traveller for conversion to a mid-boom mainsheet system. It will open up the cockpit and give you more room for the wheel. Garhaurer has a good conversion kit, probably cost you another 500 or so, that will increase purchase to 6:1 to accommodate greater load.
I agree with Joe
Based on my experience you'll give up some of the responsiveness that the C-27 is known for both due to the change from tiller to wheel steering and the change in mainsheet location. The extra room is somewhat illusory in that the wheel and pedestal clutters up the cockpit when at anchor, restricting the usable space (whereas the tiller can be tipped up, clearing the cockpit), although it's a bit less intrusive while sailing. In addition, newer boats have a T-shaped cockpit to accomodate the wheel, whereas older boats do not. On my 1981 C-30 with a wheel, it's very difficult to slide by the wheel when moving fore and aft in the cockpit. I wouldn't do it.
Based on my experience you'll give up some of the responsiveness that the C-27 is known for both due to the change from tiller to wheel steering and the change in mainsheet location. The extra room is somewhat illusory in that the wheel and pedestal clutters up the cockpit when at anchor, restricting the usable space (whereas the tiller can be tipped up, clearing the cockpit), although it's a bit less intrusive while sailing. In addition, newer boats have a T-shaped cockpit to accomodate the wheel, whereas older boats do not. On my 1981 C-30 with a wheel, it's very difficult to slide by the wheel when moving fore and aft in the cockpit. I wouldn't do it.
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Hey Joe....I expected to see a "related" link regarding wheel steering, instead, I got your ad.... I dont need a worm today.
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