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PJMcK

(23,946 posts)
2. Steering mechanisms can be tricky on boats and ships
Thu Apr 7, 2022, 09:49 AM
Apr 2022

There are generally a lot of moving parts to a boat's or ship's steering system. There are several critical mechanical links that translate the movement of the steering wheel to the rudder. If any one of those parts fails, the vessel will need to improvise a solution or call for assistance.

Most sailboats with a steering wheel have access to the linkages, (gears, chains and cables), as well as an emergency tiller connection. Motor vessels with dual propellers can use them to steer the craft. Actually, airplane pilots have done the same thing when they have two or more engines and the hydraulic steering fails. Single prop motor boats don't have that option.

On sailboats, I prefer a tiller because it has a direct connection to the rudder. There are less parts that could fail. Bigger vessels are another story.

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