Best Tiller Extension?

[Sinbad2222]

I am thinking of changing my tiller extension from the straight grip type to one with an extending spade type handle as they look easier to grip. I have seen the Spinlock Assymetric and the RWO Mightystik in the catalogues. Anybody with any experience of these two makes, good or bad, or should I save my money?

 

[vyv_cox]

I bought a Friend (http://www.mailspeedmarine.com/brandlist/mcs/brand/Pro+Boat/v/) several years ago and we are very pleased with it. At the time it was a lot cheaper than the Spinlock, don't know about the RWO version. A huge improvement over the straight type and the parking function is very useful.

 

[Sinbad2222]

Thanks for that. I havn't come across those before but have found them on the Proboat website. I like the added feature of being able easily to lock the steering - that's a useful additional feature which Spinlock don't appear to have thought of!

 

[andy_wilson]

Spinlock asymetric - if that is the one with a loop for a handle - is great.

Has the added advantage that I can set the length to rest on the cockpit coaming and trim the sails to sail herself.

Sometimes drops off the wind if I move forward however.

 

[michael_w]

I've steered for more miles than I care to think about with a Spinlock assymetric. The attachment method(fast pin) on the newer models much better than the old non-assymetric sort.

My only gripes is that the distance between the fully retracted position and the first stop is a bit on the long side. I rectified the problem by merely drilling and extra couple of holes. Also the tiller clip is a bit flimsy; had one made up in s/s which was much better.

A good bit of kit in all.

 

[andy_wilson]

Just looked at the pro-boat.

Might be worth checking the spec., but the range of extension seems quite short - in comparison to the Spinlock.

I like the look of the tiller lock, but that could easily be emulated with the spinlock.

Spinlock BTW has been in use for 5 or 6 years on mine with no sign of wear or corrosion, and so sign of giving it a rinse come to think about it. It's usually either vertical and hidden behind the tiller, or removed and in the locker by the time the hose comes out.

 

[Cloven]

Another vote for the "Friend". Had them on the last 2 boats and they are great.

Just one point, its worth making sure you get 2 of the clips to secure the tiller, one for each side of the cockpit - means you can secure from either side. When the Friend first came out they only supplied one. Also with ref to andy-wilson above, they have different models with a different extension range. Just make sure you get the one that is right for your boat.