Windpilot windvanes

[Matt Cawthorne]

I really was interested in your comments about the effect of the dodger. I plan to build a dodger as well as install a windvane. I would like to have a fairly large one for sun protection. I meant to ask about the effect on the windvane, so I am glad you brought it up. Does anyone else have any experiences with this issue? If so, I would sure be interested.

My dodger is quite low and small and never seemed to affect the wind vane. The problem is that my bimini is high and aft and has edges that round down to block the sun from the side. When close hauled the curved portion of the bimini on the sides really blocks the flow. I intend to buy or build a taller version of the tube that the vane mounts on. That will put the pivot point above any disturbing flow....I hope. Ultimately I will need to extend the linkage that runs through the tube.