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Question:
Aside from the regular windvanes on the market for Flickas, i.e., Monitor, Cape Horn, etc., has anybody had any luck with the trim tab wind vane systems. I've read about a few who have put them on, but several books I've read call them unreliable and inconsistent in operation. Once again thanks.
REPLY #1
Based on my reading, the trim tab steering on an outboard rudder can be very effective - but it got a bad rap for two main reasons:
1) It could not be mass produced - each boat was different and the design and installation of the tab would have to be customized every time. Home built tab's that were incorrectly sized would not provide for enough control unless the boat was in perfect sail trim and rudder balance. Also, yaw damping is difficult to achieve leading to over-steering.
2) The trim tab creates a real problem under power in reverse. In other words, make sure that you allow for a way to lock it in position aligned perfectly with the rudder.
Fair Winds
Jobst
REPLY #2
I've used a partly balanced trim tab on the rudder for about 15 years with a horizontal axis vane and no problems, plus steers the boat good.
s/v Wu Wei
(NOTE: The Flicka Windward Pilgrim has sailed the far reaches of the Pacific with a self-built trim tab windvane system and with great success - Flicka Friends, Summer 1997 Vol. 3 #1 - the WebCaptain)
Rod Bruckdorfer
©: copyright 2000 Rod Bruckdorfer
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