The J/109 Class Association Forum

Hello all,
I've removed the wheel and rigged the emergency tiller and tried leading the lines from several different angles (cross cockpit, to snatch blocks at each quarter, etc). But the setup seems crummy.
What have other owners done to make this system work better?
I just spoke with Al Johnstone at Jboats and he suggested fastening the lines lower on the tube . There must be a better solution than that. Any ideas?
Thanks. Reed Bernhard Mountain, #36. Seattle WA

Reed,

If you have an autopilot connected directly to the quadrant does that count as an emergency helm? That is what I have and I keep the remote mounted in a bracket on the pedastal. If there is a steering cable problem, the remote can still control the rudder.

I did try the emergency helm handle when I purchased the boat from the previous owner just to make sure it works. It isn't ideal, but does work in an emergency.

Thanks Bill.
From reading the owners manual it looks like we are expected to just stand at the emergency tiller and steer it like a bicycle. I did that and it works ok but I figured there was a better plan in mind. Apparently not.
We are installing an autopilot this spring and yes, I believe that qualifies as an emergency tiller capability too.
Take care!
Reed