Suzy Q - Engine Steering

I built a tie-rod and bracket to allow rudder control engine steering. The tie rod is 3/8" NF all-thread with brake clevis on each end. Clevis purchased at Truck parts house. I believe Dorman brand. On the engine end the clevis pin is cottered. The Rudder end is a longer pin (About 2" with a chain on the head) that drops in the hole. The brackets were home made from 2" aluminum angle stock.

On the Honda I have a crossbracket in the back, bolted under the engine case. A second bracket comes forward at an angle following the base of the engine. This forward piece is bolted to the engine with a stand-off (1/4" stainless bolt and double nuts) as the bracket is lower than the engine base at this point.

When leaving my slip I drop the engine to operating level. Swing tie rod over to rudder, drop in the pin. I back out of my slip and head for open water. When in open water I reach down and pull the pin and swing tie rod back to the engine and clip with a short bungee. I now steer normally into the wind, set sails, kill and raise engine. I do not use this device while motoring in open areas as the steering is quite severe and not comfortable.

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This tip submitted by Dale Mueller, send comments to him at vw181@e-isco.com