Tiller to wheel steering conversion

[pshaw]

I would like to convert my Compass 29 from tiller steering to wheel steering . Although many C29s have wheel steering mine is not one of them. One item that would need to be considered is whether reinforcement of the cockpit floor is necessary. If anyone has information on the following I would be grateful:
On boats originally fitted with wheel steering  is the cockpit floor reinforced and how? ie in the original layup or by reinforcement added later.
If anyone can supply me with pictures of the steering gear arrangement under the cockpit I would be most grateful.
Also, I would like the dimension from the aft end of the cockpit to the centre of the steering column mounting flange.
Unfortunately Compass 29s are rather rare in my neck of the woods so I am not able to have a look myself.
Peter

[Maeling]

Peter, I'll try to fish out a pic of the rudder shaft and cable-wheel.  Perhaps a Melbourne C29 owner on Port Phillip could jump in and invite you up, so that you can compare notes.  As a postscript, I've always thought for emergency backup on wheel steered C29s, would be to use a Tiller Pilot off the original shaft.

Well, I found it!   C29 Ophelia of Royal Brighton!  Currently around Burnie Tas.

To anyone, I have about 450mm of my old 2" wire reinforced exhaust hose 40 years old but seems in good enough condition - free to a good home!

Regards - Geoff

[Rlk]

Hi Peter,

If you ever get down to the south of Tasmania, I have a C29 with wheel steering. I also have the arrangements that Geoff suggests. I can quickly reattach my tiller stump and use a tiller pilot. I’ll get some pics next time I get out to her. 

Lloyd

On 31 Mar 2021, at 8:35 am, Maeling <scou...@gmail.com> wrote:



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<Quadrant ophelia.jpg>

[pshaw]

Thanks Geoff and Lloyd. So far I have looked at or checked out four C29's around here but all have tiller steering. I hope to go north later this year and hope I might be able to look at something in Sydney. Tasmania is out for the time being unfortunately. Thanks for your help.

Peter.

[Maeling]

Peter, Maurice Kuter ex C29 Mando when he was at St Helens, rang me off-line.  "Don't do it is his advice" He is sailing on a 32 footer tiller steered and marvels at the clear cockpit.  I know he had to work under the cockpit to maintain the steering cables and blocks on his 29.  It is hard uncomfortable work - headfirst down there. On Maeling I was supplied with the wrong type throttle/gear change unit  and only found out  when the cable would not attach to the gearbox.  I had 5 "spare "holes in the side of the cockpit well, so I put in a 150mm screw in bung.  It is handy for ventilation and I can leave alternative tools in the cockpit or get someone to pass me something, without crawling out.

Maurice's big complaint was getting around the pedstal.  Sailing alone I keep the tiller between my legs leaving both hand for sheets - works for me. I also have a 600mm straight tiller (spare) drilled for the tillerpilot bracket - works for me.

Last observation - the top and bottom ruddershafts and only approximately in line.  I always undo and inspect my bottom gudgeon when anti fouling.  Once, I found it cracked (at about 15 years) simple stick-weld repair by a plate from strap to strap.

Geoff

[pshaw]

Thanks Geoff,

Thanks for your input. I realise all boats are a compromise but the tiller causes me a few problems, no doubt some are due to my own short comings. I keep my boat in a marina since sheltered anchorages are scarce on my side of Port Philip. I moor the boat on the stbd side and with the current setup I cannot see what is happening when I have to bend down to operate the engine control to stop the boat. I fantasise how much easier it would be if I was standing with the engine controls at my fingertips and a clear view.  Also if there are others in the cockpit someone is invariably blocking the tiller at critical times. I have considered moving the engine control to the stbd side but the lazarette presents some problems if I do that. Another problem would be  getting an affordable autopilot as the Raymarine unit I have does not suit wheel steering.
 I have recently overhauled the engine control unit as it was a bit stiff to operate so I know it is a difficult place to work but that's boats.
I will probably take the advice of a former work colleague and just lie down till the feeling passes.
However, looking at C29s for sale, a lot have wheel steering. Does any one have a good word to say about them.

[Graeme Lock]

Peter:

Not sure if it’s of any help, but I use my foot on the engine lever, which is mounted low down, it helps me to keep vision as I creep up to my mooring

Cheers, Graemep

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[XSD-POP]

Peter,

I will back at Royal Brighton in 4wks – weather permitting from Devonport via a Flinders Is.

You are welcome to come aboard & take a look. Which marina are you in ?

Allan H. Ophelia.

[pshaw]

Hi Allan,

I am in Hidden Harbour at Martha Cove. I would love to inspect the famous Ophelia . I will keep an eye on Marine tracking to see your progress.

Peter S. Polly Jane II

[pshaw]

Hi Graeme,

Thanks for you suggestion I will see if I can control it. One major problem I have is that, because of the local topography I often have a fairly strong easterly wind which is across my berth and blowing me into the boat beside me. The boat also has a Bimini and is strongly affected by this. If  I overshoot I just can't go around and have another go but can do some damage.

Cheers, Peter

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