My experiences on these subjects:
Balanced rudder/weather helm- I replaced Madcap's rudder with a "balanced" rudder 2 years ago. It adds some power steering for my autopilot. I race solo and double handed races and use an autopilot often. I agree with other posts that a well set up boat in a windward/leeward race should not have much wether helm with the original rudder. Reaching is anouther story. My balanced rudder only helps a bit. The planform is shifted forward about 1.5''
Mast step- When I got the boat it was all the way forward and the RF headstay was 1'' longer the class max. This setup worked ok. I tried moving the mast step all the way back, and shortend the headstay. Much slower in light air and upwind.
Currently I have the mast step 1'' back from the molded step and the headstay length about class max. This seems to be the best set up to me.
Rig tune- I like the UK quide, and I do a light/medium/heavy tune. I have learned to tune to tighter settings, so to not get caught with headstay sag when the breeze comes up.
