Hunter 460 improved tracking

[Secondwatch]

Good Day,
I realize the 460 was not your design, but a question on the tenderness of the stearing/rudder system. Would an extension of the trailing edge of the deep keel improve tracking? The tendency in a puff seems to be; heel and round up. The rudder angle needed to overcome the rounding up is extreme - often full lock right or left. Any suggestions would be deeply appreciated.

[Glenn Henderson]

Patrick,

The effort and cost required to extend the trailing edge would not be worth the minimal effect you would acheive. If you spend a lot of time sailing in punchy conditions, try over twisting the jib by moving the sheet lead aft. The bottom of the sail would be slightly over trimmed when sailing level. When the blast hit the sails, the boat rounds up but the over twisted jib allows the top of the sail to vent. This, along with keeping the main traveller down keeps the boat from heeling too sharply and prevents rounding up. Also flatten the bottom of the main with the outhaul. If you sail in that condition a lot you may tune the mast with a couple of inches more prebend if you are not at the limit.That could make the difference you want if you have not been sailing that way.