Rudder Balance

[Mike s/v Chute the Breeze]

I have hull #169 shoal draft C-38 and just wandering if anyone knows of any modifications for the rudder over the years. She seems to have a heavy wheel and I just think a little more balance would made a big difference?? It has a 32" wheel, could be larger?Thanks in advance Mike mosilver@netnitco.net

[Mark Gale]

Mike: I've heard a lot about the 38. What is the draft on the shoal keel?

[Rodney Kidd]

Mark,I don't have a shoal draft 38 but seldom have a heavy rudder. If the boat is overpowered, it will develop some helm, and also can be a handful going downwind with the kite up. If you have more than a 1/4 turn of weather helm, it is time to de-power the boat by dropping the traveller to leeward, tightening the outhaul, increasing backstay tension, putting in the flattener, etc. Reducing the jib area by rolling some of the sail up or changing to a smaller jib also helps. You might also check to see if the steering gear is adjusted properly. Too much tension on the cables will cause stiff steering. The Rudder stuffing box may also cause extra friction if it is over tightened.Hope that helps,Rodney KiddCatalina 38, Flying Bear, #297SF Bay

[Mike s/v Chute the Breeze]

Mark, The shoal draft is 4' 11" and 7650lb.also thanks Rodney for reply, but I wasn't talking about weather helm by itself, it would be a handful to hold at 1/8 to a quarter turn for very long. I'm going to look at the steering mech.again I just replaced cables this summer..(when it warms up:)Thanks Mikemosilver@netnitco.net