Aires wind-vane

piscosour

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13 Feb 2003
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I have a double ender with transom hung rudder. There is a rugged framework around the rudder for a previously fitted wind pilot. I can either remove the framework to fit the replacement aires, not my first choice, or incorporate the aires fitting tubes into the existing tubular assembly. If I do this with the aires vertical the angles are such that the tubes cross at about 10 degrees giving an ugly looking installation and probably a weak link since I can only clamp it once. To have the tubes cross parallel to each other would necessitate the aires lying off vertical by about 15 degrees. If facing out I can adjust the vane to clear the mizzen boom and if facing in the blade misses the rudder. Here is the question...Will I lose sensitivity or performance by angling the aires and which way should I tilt it?
As usual thanks in advance,

Graham /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif
 

AndrewB

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Its hard to visualise exactly what you are proposing. Obviously all windvane gears do work when off vertical - when the yacht is heeling. But it sounds more appropriate that you should rethink the mounts you have rather than go for a very unorthodox mounting arrangement.

A selection of Aries mounting arrangements, including for the same type of stern/rudder as you have, are shown HERE. I would recommend you contact Peter Mathiessen, the Danish guy now selling Aries, who is a blue water sailor himself, to talk about this (contact details from the same site). I have found him very helpful and knowledgeable, quite happy to spend time chatting. Almost certainly he will be able to supply a suitable new mount.
 

Sea Devil

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I think you will loose sensitivity - possibly make a wider vane to make up for lack of height??? The long slim shape could become shorter and wider to catch the same wind pressure - I think I would face it out - depends on your angle of sail to the wind.. but it will never be from dead ahead... Also the Mizzen boom will never be midships ..... except when not used so you could raise that on the topping lift??
 
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