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Catalina/Capri 25/250 Sailor's Forums

Catalina 250 Specific Forum

Tiller Extension

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JohnMD
Navigator

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USA
207 Posts

Initially Posted - 04/25/2006 : 14:21:33

Has anyone used the Forespar Twist Lock Tiller Extension??? What did you think??? Sounds like a great way to lock the tiller when needed and also get the ability to lean out and 'peek' around the sails while still holding the tiller. Thanks

Edited by - on

bill bosworth
Navigator

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USA
172 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2006 : 22:04:54

John;
I use a forespar twist lock tiller extension, I also installed the extension lock boxes on both the port and starboard sides (I got them at west marine). I've been using the extension for years and would hate to be without it. The lock boxes allow me to lock the ball shaped end of the tiller extension in place, adjust the heading of the boat, then twist lock the extension, to hold course. I find that at times the twist lock doesn't want to lock without some fooling around. I'm not quite sure how to correct the problem. I hope some of that made sence.
Bill, C250wb #134 Serendipity

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JohnMD
Navigator

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USA
207 Posts

Response Posted - 04/26/2006 : 04:36:55

That all made sense. Thanks, that's exactly what I was looking for. Did you get the short stick (19 - 32) or the longer one (27 - 48)??

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Bubba
Admiral

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USA
542 Posts

Response Posted - 04/26/2006 : 19:42:19

I have used the Forespar twist-lock extension for a few years too. I'm pretty sure mine is the shorter of the two. Even with the short one, I can steer from the stern pulpt seat while on a run.

I only have one lock box though. I was able to place the cut-out for the lock box right behind the cut-out for the combing box. If the lock-box leaks, it will just run into the combing box and out the drain - no leaks in the cabin.

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Tom Potter
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1913 Posts

Response Posted - 04/26/2006 : 20:09:14

I too have the Forespar twist-lock extension, allows me to steer from the wing seats.

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JohnMD
Navigator

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USA
207 Posts

Response Posted - 04/26/2006 : 20:16:36

Did you mount the extension on the top or the bottom of the tiller??? How far back from the front of the tiller??? Thanks again, I really appreciate the info.

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Tom Potter
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1913 Posts

Response Posted - 04/26/2006 : 20:21:37

TPO installed the pin socket on top of the tiller about 7" back from the front of the tiller. I stow it below when not in use.

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AADIVER
Admiral

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USA
966 Posts

Response Posted - 04/27/2006 : 00:30:34

How does the Forespar twist lock tiller extension unit when set in the lock box compare to the Tiller Tamer? More or less effective in holding the boat on course for short periods of time?

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Bubba
Admiral

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USA
542 Posts

Response Posted - 04/27/2006 : 20:32:17

Frank, I'd say they're both equally effective at holding the tiller in place. I personally prefer the tiller extension because... well, it's a tiller extension.

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AADIVER
Admiral

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USA
966 Posts

Response Posted - 04/27/2006 : 23:04:19

I have both but I don't have the lock box for the Forespar...yet. With the Tamer I can make small, subtle adjustments, but the Forespar is either locked or unlocked, no fine tuning.

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Bubba
Admiral

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USA
542 Posts

Response Posted - 04/28/2006 : 20:42:47

Frank, to fine tune the Forespar twist-lock, you hook the knob in the lockbox and twist the extension to unlock it. You can then set the tiller exactly where you want it and then twist to lock the extension in that position. If I'm going to be up and down a lot, I just leave the extension in the lockbox and hooked to the tiller, but with it twisted to the unlock position. That way I can steer the tiller as needed then with a twist of the wrist it's locked and I can get up and leave it for a minute. It's just as handy as a tiller tamer, but due to the min and max length of the extension, you can't put the tiller hard over while hooked up like that.

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JohnMD
Navigator

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USA
207 Posts

Response Posted - 05/14/2006 : 20:05:46

I finally got around to installing my tiller extension and lock boxes. I found out that the shorter model Forespar, when fully extended, is about two inches too short to put the tiller midship. Just FYI for anyone else thinking about getting one.

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RSHOOTER
Navigator

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USA
101 Posts

Response Posted - 05/16/2006 : 06:59:02

Can anyone share their experience in mounting the Forespar Lockbox? I have an old one and wonder if the design has changed. The cutout clearance is very small...it looks like one small mistake and you have a bigger hole than you would need!!! Thanks.

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JohnMD
Navigator

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USA
207 Posts

Response Posted - 05/16/2006 : 08:05:05

It comes with a template. I cut it out, traced it with pencil on the boat, drilled holes in each corner, and cut it with a jig saw. I was careful to cut less than more and actually had to use rough grit sandpaper to enlarge the hole a little more. Oh and yes, I was nervous the entire time. Something about cutting holes in a perfectly good boat. I've heard that taping over the gel before you cut it keeps it from chipping. I just use a fine tooth blade and lots of patience.

Edited by - JohnMD on 05/16/2006 08:06:53

Stabenau
Deckhand

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USA
2 Posts

Response Posted - 05/21/2006 : 08:19:54

I'd use tape to reduce chipping on fiberglass, go slow, and one more thing - I'd cover the face plate of my jigsaw to reduce the chance of leaving marks from the metal plate. Might not be necessary but in my mind it is nice to reduce the risk so you can concentrate on getting the line right instead of worrying about damaging the surrounding surface.

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Bubba
Admiral

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USA
542 Posts

Response Posted - 05/21/2006 : 08:57:20

A rotary cutting tool works well too - or even a dremel tool.

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Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.