Wheel Steering

[Mark]

I am thinking about adding wheel steering to my Hunter 26.5. Has anyone had any experience with doing this and how difficult is it? Where would I find a kit to do this? Any replies would be appreciated.

 

[C]

Unless

...you've got $2000 to blow, start looking in/at salvage parts, yards etc. I put wheel steering on my 22 for $400.00 "Someones" OEM quote was $1500 and that's if I installed it myself.

 

[Glenn Bollin]

Why?

In my opinion, tillers have many advantages over a wheel. They save space, allow more freedom of movement while at the helm, are easily connected to an autopilot, and give you a better feel of what's happening with the rudder. Even though my wife thinks it will be easier to steer(like a car), I wouldn't dream of converting my 26.5.p.s. She doesn't drive a car that well either and I can say that because she doesn't read this forum (I hope!).GlennWindWisp

 

[Michael Bell]

Enjoy the room in the cockpit

My other boat is an old Columbia 36. It originally came with a tiller - but someone installed a wheel. And it's OK, but even on a boat that size, it gets in the way. For certain, I would have a wheel that removes easily when at dockanchor.

 

[Michael Salois]

Wheel

I also have a 26.5 and would love to have the extra room in the cockpit that a wheel would give but hate to lose the advantage of the walk through transom. I have my boat on a mooring.