Emergency Tiller Solutions - Irwin 52

[Tampabayfireman]

Ok, before I resort to weird ideas, and calling the Guru Gene, I am looking for some ideas. Here is the problem. On my Irwin 52, the emergency tiller connection is dead under the rear hatch. So unless i leave a 20x20 hatch wide open, there is no way to rig a emergency tiller unless it is handled below deck only, and even then, with an aft cabin, walkie talkies, or thumps on the cabin roof, u cant steer and see too. Ideas? or others with same issues?

Thanks

[rustypirate]

You could install a screw-out access panel in the middle of the hatch. That way you could leave the hatch closed and the only opening to the weather would be the 4" or so hole from the acces panel.

[Stillraining]

Originally Posted by rustypirate

You could install a screw-out access panel in the middle of the hatch. That way you could leave the hatch closed and the only opening to the weather would be the 4" or so hole from the acces panel.

Yes,,This is exactly what you want to do...Here is mine.

[GordMay]

Consider drilling either a 3-3/4” (95mm) or a 4-3/4” (121mm) hole in the hatch.
These will accept a 3" or 4" (nominal) Nicro Vent, should you decide to fit one instead of the "blanc" access cover.

[fishwife]

I had a similar problem and had to install access as suggested by Rustypirate and Gord. That also involved extending the stock on the tiller. The proof of the pudding and all that, I had to try it out. I found that with the relatively short arm on my emergency tiller, there was no way that I could actually apply enough force to steer the boat at any speed greater than 4 knots. I've since installed a dual block and pulley system that I can rig quickly to sort out the effort required. Extending the arm of the tiller presented too many space problems. I've since talked to lots of folks who have never tried using their emergency tiller. Granted, I have a large rudder and a heavy boat but it still came as quite a surprise to me. Perhaps it's a good idea for everyone to test the tiller before it's needed in a force 8 gale

[cliff johnsen]

It really is simple: I made an aluminum cover for the hatch with a hole for the tiller shaft to go through. Simply open the hatch, place the cover on it, and secure with two screws that always stay in the cover. Also drill a hole in the bed hatch, so the rudder shaft can be put throuh it (in between the two matresses) . Now you dont have to dismantle the bed to get the thing working. It is slick, waterproof and takes only a few minutes to set it up. I welded a socket to the end of a 1" water pipe for the shaft, used an elbow at the top (with counter sunk screw so it wont twist) and a couple of tillers that screw on with standard plumbing couplings. It goes any length you like. the hatch cover provides the much needed middle support for the system.