DRAGONFLY Trimarans User Forum

My plan is to do some maintenance and update work with the steering system during next winter:
-new bigger steering wheel for better ergonomics
-new rudder bearing rings to reduce play
-new steering cables
-pedestal bearings and chain check
-reduce friction at the system
-rudder downhaul tackle cleaning and greasing
-pedestal guardrail update for more room for your hand
A couple of questions:
1-has anyone installed Dyneema ropes instead of steel cable wires?
2-has anyone removed wire steering system and replaced it with a rod steering system?
3-What is the angle of the cone at steering wheel? It is about 15.5 degrees or the ratio is about 1:7.3. My pedestal is made by Whitlock.
4-Has anyone covered the steering wheel with Lorica synthetic leather?
5-Any other tips?

has anyone removed wire steering system and replaced it with a rod steering system?

Do you mean hydrolic system?
If it is the case it is not good, i had one on an other boat and the position of neutral always change and hydrolic need lots of care to dust when you cut the tubes to install it.

nirvana_eric_DF1000 wrote:has anyone removed wire steering system and replaced it with a rod steering system?

Do you mean hydrolic system?
If it is the case it is not good, i had one on an other boat and the position of neutral always change and hydrolic need lots of care to dust when you cut the tubes to install it.

I do not want to have a hydraulic system, it is for motor yachts.
What I mean is a fully mechanical system with a gear and push bar (rod). Friction of it is smaller and steering should be more sensitive.

Mika
Did you ever rebuild the steering pedestal? I just bought a re-build kit for mine and was wondering if you have any tips?

Thanks
Ted