I decided that the proper rudder deflection angle should be measured
between the centerline of the fin and the centerline of the rudder. This
is not an easy thing to measure, so I made a cardboard template that fit
snugly over the fin and rudder about 6 inches from the tip, with the rudder
centered. I then cut out a cardboard section of the rudder profile at
this same station and marked its centerline and hinge location. With a
pin through the hinge point of the rudder profile, the rudder profile may
be swung in both directions with a protractor or 30 degree triangle, and
the center lines and rudder outer profile marked on the cardboard template.
This envelope of the rudder travel may then be cut out of the template
and the template may be simply stuck over the fin to set the proper travel.
It turned out to be a slick method for a tricky measurement.
Pops
A036
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-europa@aztec.houxou.com
Subject: Rudder deflection
Having just completed my recent move to Las Vegas I have started back to
work on the Europa. I was rechecking the rudder movement and got a
reading that shocked me. Prior to the move the rudder travel was set at
30 deg. starboard and 32 deg. port. Now when I checked it I had a
movement of 28 deg. starboard and 26 deg. port. What had happened?
Well, as it turned out I had measured the angle differently this time.
This time I measured rudder travel using outside vs. inside angles. What
is the correct method of determining rudder travel? I reviewed the
manual and it isn't quite clear from their drawing. If measuring port
travel is the angle from the inside (protractor place on the port side of
the rudder) or does one put the protractor on the starboard side of the
rudder and use and outside angle? Not wanting to change the rudder again
(I have the push rod setup) I am hoping the angle is measured on the
inside, which means the protractor is placed on the port side of the
rudder for determining port travel. Clear as mud, right?
Thanks,
Erich Trombley
Builder A028
Direct from Sin City, Nevada
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