A major factor in the heavy feel of the J/30 helm is related to the fact that it is a transom-hung rudder. The leading edge of the rudder is about 2 inches behind the centerline of the pintles. This gives a substantial negative mechanical advantage. In other words, the rudder is a very unbalanced design ... identical to its older, smaller sister, the J/24. In later designs, like the J/92, the Johnstones brought the leading edge forward below the pintles. This made a less unbalanced design. I know of several cruisers who have built up the leading edge to accomplish the same thing. The question is how much to build up the leading edge. I talked to one owner who did that and said that he put too much material up front. In doing so, he lost helm feel in most conditions.
