which self steering gear

[ColinR]

for my Victoria 30? I've read the blurb on the different vane self steering systems and it would be useful to get feedback from anyone who has tried them. At present I use an Autohelm 2000 which is not bad but I never entirely trust it in rough conditions and would like to not be dependent on battery power and electronics. Is it really worth spending 5 times the cost of an autohelm on one of these?

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[BobE]

try
http://www.windvane.co.uk/index.htm
I fitted one last spring and have been very pleased with the result.. Prices depend on length of paddle.. Connecting to the tiller is a bit of a fiddle but it certainly seems worth the effort.
I looked at all the kit available and many were way way out of my range..
Pm me if you want more details.
Cheers Bob E...

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[Scillypete]

I managed to pick up a secondhand Navik for about the same price as a new electronic self steering device. This I fitted to a Halcyon 27 and it worked like a dream, very easy to set up and use. Of course with the wind vane you have to bear in mind that it will steer to the wind it is set for and not follow a compass course.


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[Sea Devil]

Really depends on what distances you sail and how many crew. It is perfectly possible single handed to helm for 8- 12 hours to get you in - not fun but possible - if you are two handed or more is possible - if you are going to cross seas or oceans then I think you should get a wind self steering gear....

<hr width=100% size=1>If you have time please visit my web site -
<A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.michaelbriant.com/sailing>http://www.michaelbriant.com/sailing</A>