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My 'Build-Your-Own' Catamaran Gets A DIY Steering System | Wildling Sailing

19 January 2024 · 25 min · 131K views · United Kingdom

What this video covers

A DIY steering system for a Wharram catamaran involves fabricating a custom stainless steel shaft and aluminum drum assembly.4:19 The project replaces the original plywood steering wheel design with a stainless steel wheel mounted on an enlarged wooden block.3:43 To reduce friction, the assembly uses oil-lite bushings bored to one inch to accommodate the custom shaft.4:26 The fabrication process requires drilling and tapping 8mm threads into the aluminum drum, which is then secured to the tapered shaft using a set screw that seats into a machined divot.20:45 The builder also fabricates stainless steel backing plates for the cap shroud chain plates to repair rot damage caused by exposed bulkhead holes.2:45 Previous structural repairs on the vessel included sealing through-hulls, repairing window apertures, and reinforcing mast support beams.1:31 The builder plans to complete the steering system installation upon returning to the boat in four weeks, with the goal of making the vessel sailable by the end of the summer.23:32

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