Originally posted by Tom Olsen:
I co-own a S2 7.9 with a partner. He just purchased a 1979 vintage J-30 in Oklahoma. We have sailed it twice and have discovered the boat has severe weather helm in moderate to high wind ranges. Is this common on this boat and if so, is there a way to correct it?
It is important to distinguish between weather helm, and helm load. The J/30 rudder is not balanced and may carry loads larger than you are used to even at neutral or small angles of attack. This is not weather helm, but rather heavy rudder load that you have to carry, and can feel in the tiller. I do not believe this load is excessive, but some helmsman used to highly balanced rudders seem to be bothered by it.
The best way to counteract the load and maintain speed and height (without adding a balanced rudder) is weight on the rail.
