[C320-list] Steering Wheel

[Scott Thompson]

I'd be interested in learning whether the considerable reduction in 
wheel revolutions (from roughly 2 to 1) in the newer boats is because of 
more restricted rudder movement or because of a change in the 
wheel-to-rudder linkage. 

If the former then the change would actually reduce the  maneuverability. 

If the latter then the turning radius is the same as before, but the 
amount of wheel movement needed to get to maximum rudder deflection is 
less.  That would be good for rapid maneuvering, but bad for most 
sailing in my view.  In particular, it's going to double the load on the 
autopilot (or human pilot for that matter).  Did Catalina decide that 
the wheel on the older boats didn't give the helmsman enough feel?

Scott Thompson

belairlk at aim.com wrote:
> Annie, Aqua5, #1070, also has just 1 complete revolution---which I like as it makes for quicker control.  Our engines are 29hp 3YM30's, noticeably quieter than the 27hp 3GM30's on 320's through sometime in mid '05.
>  
> Len 
>  
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Annie Bennett <annie at sydneyprivatesailing.com.au>
> To: C32 List <C320-List at catalina320.com>
> Sent: Sat, 4 Feb 2006 23:12:12 +1100
> Subject: [C320-list] Steering Wheel
>
>
> The new Topcat 3 has arrived and is looking beautiful.  The engine seems
> particularly quiet and I like the push button to stop the engine.
>  
> A question - how many revolutions do other people's steering wheels do?
> Topcat 2's wheel does 2 complete revolutions.  Topcat 3's wheel only does 1
> complete revolution - which probably explains why I couldn't make nearly as
> sharp turns as on Topcat 2.  I assume the rudder is being restricted from
> moving as much as on Topcat 2.  I mentioned this to the dealer who will
> check into it but any comments from the font of all knowledge would be much
> appreciated!
>  
> Annie Bennett
> #1073
>
>  
>
>  
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