A Simple Backup Rudder for Ocean Voyagers
In the 2002 WMPC, five boats had serious rudder problems, and one boat was abandoned. Here is a simple design for a backup rudder that is light, small, and cheap.
Term Image
One Year after Low Speed Chase
There’s nothing in life more absolutely devastating than the loss of a loved one. It creates a sudden vacancy once occupied by a meaningful connection, awakens us to our own mortality, and forces us to evaluate who we are, what we’ve done and where we’re headed. For the family, friends and survivors, the April 14, 2012 Low Speed Chase accident at the Farallones changed our lives forever.
Do I have to demonstrate my emergency steering?
Maybe. Your inspector may ask for a demo, and some inspectors do this routinely. This typically is conducted with the main rudder tightly locked on centerline; the emergency steering is then used to execute 180 degree course changes to port and starboard without adjusting the main rudder lock or lashing.
What are the most common equipment failures that cause boats to drop out of the race?
The NOR and Offshore Special Regulations require that a tested method of alternate steering be provided in case of rudder failure. Most racers go with some sort of backup rudder, but other methods such as drogues are not ruled out. Check the knowledgebase on this subject for some ideas.
Do I need an emergency rudder?
Rudder failures and fresh water system failures.
A good emergency rudder or other backup steering system will bring the boat safely back to California or to Hawaii, but is generally not sufficient to keep racing.
Emergency Rudder Design Guidelines
Emergency Rudder Design Guidelines : Two approaches
by Paul Kamen
Bill Lee on Alternate Steering Methods - No Rudder Needed?
Excerpt from Transpac Questions and Answers
Bill Lee, Wizard Yachts Ltd.
_/)_/)_/)_/)_/)_/)_/)_/)_/)_/)_/)_/)
Q: My boat has a long graceful stern overhang with a small traditional transom. I
see no way to fit an emergency rudder to meet the emergency steering
requirement of section 4.15.
A: The actual requirement is “alternative methods of steering” of which an
emergency rudder is only one.