Hello all. I have a 1997 Hunter 26, and would very much like to have wheel steering installed on it in the off-season. I'm afraid as time has gone on I'm starting to suffer from "tiller-elbow." I once asked an Edson rep if they had an application that would work, but was told that they did not. I suspect that the foot-brace in the center of the cockpit sole may be problematic. Has anyone installed a pedestal and wheel on the H-26?
Wheel Steering H-26
- Thread starter Chris Hagens
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When I was looking for a Hunter 26 or 260 to purchase I came across sereal H26's that had wheel mods. Some were factory and a couple were done by the owners. I know this can be done. I will look at some of my old files and see if I can find any info on it for you. I'm sure someone will chime in that has done this mod or has done it. I remember because that was one of the "must have's" that I was looking for.
Personally, I wouldn't give up the cockpit space on my h26 for a wheel. The cockpit is the best thing the 26 has going for it.
If you want to relieve "tiller elbow" get a tiller extender. If you just want "wheel steering" it may be a good excuse to trade up. Don't forget a wheel steering boat usually has a helm seat behind the wheel. Perhaps installing a chair on the rudder post may enable the helmsman to turn in sync with the wheel.
For a wheel to do the job well, it needs to be large. I have sailed a friend's Mac 26 and the small wheel does not provide the "feel" needed for good steering. I agree with the post about using a tiller extension or tiller tamer rather than the expense of a wheel which you may find problematic.
Wheel
Here is a good shot of the cockpit of my 260. Since you can sit on all three sides of the pedestal I don't think I loose any space that the tiller wouldn't occupy.
Here is a good shot of the cockpit of my 260. Since you can sit on all three sides of the pedestal I don't think I loose any space that the tiller wouldn't occupy.
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