TopTip2020 #75 - Tiller Extension Memory - by Peter Barton, GBR
' Tiller Extension Memory!
Have you ever thought your tiller extension has a mind of its own? Well you are right! The plastic universal joint (UJ) will want to spring back to the way it is used to. So if ever dropped it will bounce back in that direction. You can use this to your advantage, so how you store it is important in order to train it well.
When tiller extensions are brand new the plastic UJ is still ridged and untrained. The tiller extension will naturally stand bolt upright. Pictured here on 'Dasha III' (Photo1)
If you leave the tiller extension pointing backwards alongside the tiller (Photo 2) whilst at rest then it will spring away from you backwards (Photo 3) if you drop it, to be out of reach and hard to retrieve easily. That's bad! 💦
If you leave the tiller extension extended forwards down the boat whilst at rest (Photo 4) then if you drop it during a tack it will stay forwards and bounce in front of you (Photo 5). This makes a quick re-catch possible, especially if you already have your boat well balanced (heel vs trim) and the rudder is neutral so it auto steers straight for a moment. Pictured here on 'Dennis the Menace'.
Remember
Two small mods that can save large consequences...
- Always put a couple of wraps of tape or bungee (or hair tie?) around the tiller extension attachment to the tiller, to ensure it never pops off.
- Put a few wraps of tape around your tiller extension shaft to stop your wet hands slipping up it. '
Photo 1
Photo 2
Photo 3
Photo 4
Photo 5
