Hydrovane Steering

[Fr J Hackett]

Used to have a HV and echo all the positive points about it the only downside I had was the oft mentioned problem of taking it on and off, not a problem if you have a sugar scoop at the stern. Because of this and the fact that I am basically idle I used to leave it on for long periods until one day I sailed out of Fowey and couldn't get above 2knts which I eventually tracked down to the rudder being turned at 90 degrees to the keel and held fast by a broken and bent pin which I eventually managed to drive out and release the rudder, not easy at the time half in the water half hanging half supported by my harness in a bit of a swell.Never did fathom out how it happened but it wasn't me gov and there were no marks on it.
There was an article in PBO many years ago by a guy that designed a bracket and pole contrivance for fitting and disengaging.
The other big advantage no one has mentioned is there is no string back into the cockpit.
Finally I never had problems with the new owners dispute the convoluted method of ordering and paying for spares, I found them to be polite pleasant people, go and speak to them at the boat show.

 

[Blueboatman]

The hinged rudder HVane mod is clever but what a shame it doesn't hinge-or trip- along the boats fore and aft axis when running over a potline...

I am still intrigued by Michael W's experiences with HV as I now see that he has completed at least one Atlantic circuit with boat very similar to mine and all I can think for that sloop and skeghung rudder is that the HV might benefit from being a little further aft, clear of the rudders trailing vortices(?) and perhaps lower the whole unit 4 inches to give more immersed rudder bite whilst adding a taller wind sock. Worth a play I would think, if you're readin g this mw?