Steering Gear

[Denis Goyette]

according to plan, the steering gear is installed after the hull side and seats are done, how complex is it to do it thru the lazarette opening?? I am thinking of doing it prior to install the last rear hull side panel,using T. Nelson steering modification. http://www.surbrook.org/nelson/steering.htm

Gentlemen your thoughts???

Denis

[Dave R1]

I did mine prior to putting the sides on. I needed access on both sides. I also cut a hatch in the lazarette deck instead of following the plans.

See here: http://groups.msn.com/WeekenderBoatbuilding/daverichardsweekender.msnw?Page=2

[Derek]

Denis, I made a late decision to return to the wheel sterring system (was planning a tiller from start). Thank goodness I did not permanently attach one of the hull sides. You will find it much easier to set up your rigging going through at least one side versus just an access port. I also omitted the lazerette opening and opted for two deck plates in the corners of the aft deck. Good luck and keep us posted.

[Knut]

Denis,

I installed the Nelson Surbrook steering (and as mentioned before, it works like silk with normal braided 1/4" rope). The blocks, the turnbuckle and the rope (fixed at the end opposite the turnbuckle) were all placed before the hull sides, seat backs and seats etc.

The rope was threaded working through the lazarett standard opening and the end was finally secured by taking it through a borehole in the lazarett wall in the rear end of the below-seat cabinet.

It was difficult, but with some patience it can be done. I would still recommend doing this before closing up the space (for those having a choice), unless plans are to have additional openings to the lazarett.