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Tiller length
Posted: Wed Aug 19, 2009 4:23 am
by Dented
Hey there, I have an old LS-13 that I just got but the tiller is missing. I am
going to make one but not sure how long it needs to be. Any one help?
Thanks
Posted: Thu Aug 20, 2009 5:20 pm
by shenry11
I too have a LS-13, and the tiller that came with the boat was replaced with an axe handle. The axe handle is "cute", but it makes it impossible to sail the boat alone, because you cannot reach the jib sheets and hold the tiller at the same time.
I have not been able to figure out the length officially, but I believe it to be between 41 and 43 inches. I would be curious to see what you find out!
Steve
Posted: Thu Aug 20, 2009 5:42 pm
by shunt1
shenry11 wrote:The axe handle is "cute", but it makes it impossible to sail the boat alone, because you cannot reach the jib sheets and hold the tiller at the same time.
As an old Laser sailer, there is an easy solution for that problem. Use a tiller extension! On sailboats where you must hike out to maintain ballance, a simple rod is attached to the end of the tiller so that you can stear while hanging over the side.
Posted: Fri Aug 21, 2009 2:41 am
by shenry11
I have thought about a tiller extension, and may still get one, but I really do want to put a "real" tiller on my boat. I had started to build a Glen-L 14' at one time, and have the plans for the tiller for that boat. I plan to craft a tiller out of some Mahogany that I have. It's just been too busy at work this summer!
Posted: Fri Aug 21, 2009 3:23 am
by Dented
Thanks guys, I kinda thought 40 some inches but that seems kind of long.
Would it be better, as Shunt1 said to use an extension and then go with a shorter tiller? I have never owned a sailboat before to have to figure this out and the last time I sailed was on a rented 14 foot boat 10 years ago.