CD 31 Wheel

[guy leslie]

I'm thinking of changing the steering wheel on my CD 31. The boat is still new to me, but I've noticed in several pictures that most of these boats appear to have a smaller wheel. Mine measures 36" in dia. and pretty much eliminates the advantages of the T-shaped cockpit. I find myself stepping onto the cockpit cushions to approach the helm. If there's no real loss in handling the boat with a smaller wheel, I may swap it out. Can anyone tell me the advantage of a larger wheel?
Thanks for any thoughts and here's to spring!!

Guy

[Maine_Buzzard]

Hand position and leverage.

If you are ok to drop the height a bit, then the only real impact is that a smaller wheel will take more force to hold against the rudder feedback from the barn door underwater.

Cut a hula hoop to the diameter desired, tape it to the spokes and try driving it from there in a blow.

The most ignored advice is to make no changes for one season...

Congratulations on choosing a very pretty and well laid out boat!

[Jim Walsh]

I'm thinking of changing the steering wheel on my CD 31. The boat is still new to me, but I've noticed in several pictures that most of these boats appear to have a smaller wheel. Mine measures 36" in dia. and pretty much eliminates the advantages of the T-shaped cockpit. I find myself stepping onto the cockpit cushions to approach the helm. If there's no real loss in handling the boat with a smaller wheel, I may swap it out. Can anyone tell me the advantage of a larger wheel?
Thanks for any thoughts and here's to spring!!

Guy

The standard wheel diameter is 28". Seems to be a fine compromise between helm station accessibility and effort required to steer. The PO may have wanted to sit on the cockpit coamings with his back supported by the lifelines when at the helm. I do that occasionally but it's not comfortable for extended periods. Don't discount the fact that he may just have found a 36" wheel at a bargain price and was looking to try something new. He may also have had less reach than most folks and needed it for everyday comfort.

[mgphl52]

If the effort to hold a course is so much that a 36" vs 28" wheel makes a difference, I'd suggest one trim their sails better. Just saying...