Tiller extension that clips on coaming

[MoodySabre]

I've seen a review recently (can't find it /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif)

Forgotten what they are called /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

Son wants one for his birthday (always hopeful) so questions:

Where was the review (PBO or ST is all I read)
What are they called?
Are they any good (for use on a CO32)?

The little grey cells are a bit slow this evening /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

 

[Gin]

Don't want to offend rules , so PM me with your e-mail address and I shall send you
details

 

[vyv_cox]

The one I have is callaed a 'Friend', made in Italy but bought in Holland. Very useful but I suggest you buy the additional clip for the other coaming, as there are times when an alternative location can be useful. Mine is on a Sadler 34 so no problem forseen for your Co32.

Just found it at http://www.skipfriend.it/english.htm Proboat sell them.

 

[Cloven]

We also have one of these - great bit of kit but with some minor limitations.

Great if you want to leave the tiller alone for a short time but as there are preset 'stops' within the extension, it is very difficult to get the rudder exactly amidships so eventually the boat will go off course slightly.

Having said that, would not be without one.

Agree 100% with vyv_cox re getting a second coaming clip. In fact we went further and bought a third as a spare as this is potentially the weak point and could break if you fell on the extension while it is clipped in. Having said that, we have had them fitted on two boats for over 7 seasons now without problems.

One final comment, the clip that holds the extension onto the tiller when it is not being used is not up to the job and after a short time it gets so the extension falls out of the clip easily. Had one replaced by Proboat but not really much better so will be fitting a better clip for next season

 

[Gin]

Also here from their other UK importer

friendtiller@tiscali.co.uk

 

[snowleopard]

I made my own instant tiller securing mechanism. It requires a jamming cleat (of the type with one straight horn and one curved, not the cam or tubular sort).

Screw the cleat on the underside of the tiller with the jamming horn pointing forwards. Fix an eye to the inside of the transom either side of the rudder and tie a short loop of bungy through each eye. Join the bungies with a length of cord of sufficient length to slip over the horn of the cleat when stretched.

To lash the helm, simply flip the cord over the cleat. It's infinitely adjustable and allows you to make emergency course changes easily. It's cheap, simple and it works.

 

[MoodySabre]

[ QUOTE ]
It's cheap, simple and it works.

[/ QUOTE ]

It'll never catch on unless it costs a lot of money. You are talking to yacht owners here old chap not the camping club /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[michael_w]

I've sailed on several boats fitted with a Spinlock adjustable tiller extension.

To hold the helm for a moment or two; adjust the length and jam against the leeward cockpit coaming, over sheet the main to induce a bit of weather helm and Bob's your whatsist. Works best going to windward or close reaching.

Good for a nip to leeward to look under the genoa, put the kettle on, have a pee. Or all of the foregoing if you're quick.