Tiller play

[Second Wind]

I've got in my opinion a lot of play in my tiller (rudder?). When I move the tiller back and forth it takes about 2 inches before it grabs again. Everything I see in the cockpit looks ok. What should I check or is this normal? If not normal I hope it's something I can get to without having to haul the boat out. Thanks.



Jfsjr@Aol.com

[Bob B.]

Make sure that the set screw is snug. Mine sometimes loosens up and the tiller has some play. Most rudder posts have a key in them also. Look for that to see if it is in there. Either could be your problem. If that isn't it, then the post inside the rudder may be turning in that you have broken the welds loose. I don't think that should be it. Look for the simpler versions first. Hope it is easily solved.

Bob B.
Capt. S/V Oblivion



BundyR@aol.com

[Robin Meigel]

I had play in my tiller also. The key seemed snug enough. When I tightened the screw as far as I could, the cap edges touched together. The solution in my case turned out to be taking my dremel tool and making the niche opening (that the screw closes) wider, so that the screw would tighten the whole thing tighter than was previously possible. My own (amateur) explanation for what was going on was very subtle galvanic corrosion - bronze cap over stainless rudder post. The fix took 15 minutes with the dremel tool and there is now NO play.