Question 1

How do you set up self-steering with a sheet-to-tiller system on a sailboat?

Accepted Answer

A sheet-to-tiller system is a way of using the jib sheet and some bungee cords or surgical tubing to steer the boat without holding the tiller. The basic principle is that when the boat veers off course, the jib sheet will pull or slacken the tiller, which will correct the course. To set up this system, you need to do the following steps:

Trim the jib sheet through its usual leeward block, then run it to a block on the windward side of the cockpit beside the tiller;

Attach one end of a bungee cord or surgical tubing to the leeward side of the cockpit near the stern, then run it through another block near the end of the tiller and back to itself. This will create tension on the leeward side of the tiller;

Tie one end of a short cord (about 9 or 10 feet) to the jib sheet near where it exits from its leeward block, then run it through another block near where it enters its windward block. Tie the other end of this cord to an eyelet or cleat on top of the tiller. This will create tension on the windward side of the tiller;

Adjust the tension of both sides of the tiller until they are balanced and keep the boat on course. You may need to experiment with different lengths and elasticities of bungee cords or surgical tubing until you find what works best for your boat.

Question 2

How do you lock the tiller on a sailboat?

Accepted Answer

Locking the tiller on a sailboat can be useful when you need to leave the helm for a short time, such as adjusting the sails, checking the charts, or using the head. There are different ways to lock the tiller, depending on your boat and equipment. Some common methods are:

Using a tiller lock or clamp that attaches to the tiller and the cockpit sole or coaming. This will hold the tiller in place and prevent it from moving. You can adjust the tension of the lock or clamp to allow some play or movement of the tiller if needed;

Using a tiller tamer or brake that attaches to the tiller and a line that runs through two blocks on either side of the cockpit. This will create friction on the tiller and slow down its movement. You can adjust the tension of the line to control how much resistance the tiller has;

Using a bungee cord or surgical tubing that attaches to the tiller and two points on either side of the cockpit, such as cleats, stanchions, or lifelines. This will create tension on the tiller and keep it centred. You can adjust the length and elasticity of the bungee cord or surgical tubing to allow some movement of the tiller if needed.

Question 3

How do you set up an autopilot with a wheel steering system on a sailboat?

Accepted Answer

An autopilot is a device that can steer the boat without human intervention, based on a pre-set course or data from sensors. To set up an autopilot with a wheel steering system on a sailboat, you need to do the following steps:

Choose an autopilot that is compatible with your boat size, type, and steering system. There are different types of autopilots, such as cockpit-mounted, below-deck-mounted, hydraulic, electric, or wind-powered;

Install the autopilot components, such as the control unit, display unit, drive unit, compass sensor, wind sensor, speed sensor, and GPS receiver. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and wiring diagrams carefully;

Calibrate and test the autopilot for accuracy and performance. You may need to adjust some settings, such as rudder gain, counter rudder, response level, and off-course alarm.