Melges 14 - Step 11: Install Rudder and Tiller

THE MELGES 14 : STEP 11
INSTALL THE RUDDER AND TILLER
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Ensure that the rudder is in the up position on the rudder
head and slide the rudder head onto the transom gudgeons.
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Ensure that you work the rudder all the way down and
the rudder retaining clip springs back over the top of the lower
gudgeon block on the rudder head.
•
Slide the tiller under the traveler bridle from the bow aft,
keep the tiller extension over the top of the bridle.
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Slide the tiller into the rudder head with the hole facing up.
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Align the holes in the tiller and rudder head and insert
the quick pin making sure the pin goes through the bottom
hole in the rudder head.
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Make sure the rudder head bolt is tight enough to hold the
rudder in the up position. If the rudder falls and hits the ground
it could damage the gelcoat on the rudder.
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Lead the rudder hold down line forward to the cleat on the side
of the tiller and tie a figure 8 knot in the end of the line.
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Once the boat is in the water, you can push down the rudder,
make sure that it goes all the way down, then tighten the line
and cleat it to keep the rudder in the down position.
•
Make sure that if you are sailing into shallow water or
onto the beach you uncleat the rudder hold down line.
It is best to flip the rudder up prior to getting to the
shallow water to avoid damaging the rudder or the
transom of the boat.
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