R25sc rudder

[bauerbach46]

Took my RT 25sc out today in about a 10 knot wind with a 1-2 foot chop. I found myself having to be constantly working the steering wheel to keep the tug close to a decently straight course and then, with the autopilot engaged, I watched the heading move 20 degrees to port followed by a 15 degree correction by the autopilot followed by another 15 degrees being blown off course by the wind and current followed by another 20 degree correction by the autopilot etc. etc. I started wondering if the rudder on these boats is large enough to adequately keep the boat on course. Any thoughts, similar experience, or suggestions?

 

[Navigator's Son]

I'm sure everyone is going to share their own experiences here.

I've been in much worse too many times, and for the most part, the boat has held course. However, if the current is what's pushing you sideways, then yeah, I'd expect any boat is going to constantly have to correct it's heading.

 

[dclagett]

Don’t have an autopilot so I can’t comment on that, however the rudder seems adequate for all normal operation except docking without thrusters. Running in 1 to 2 foot chop from any direction should not be an issue, I find only occasional very small correction are necessary. Bow trim can affect steering especially in following seas, remember bow up for following seas and bow down for head seas. You also may want to check your steering system for air or helm pump problems.

 

[NorthernFocus]

How fast were you running? Upwind or downwind? Autopilot simply holding a heading or running a track?

One concern I had when buying the R25 was the size of the rudder. My frame of reference is work boats and sailboats both of which have huge rudders. I went ahead and bought the boat with the thought that I'd modify the rudder. But as it turned out I've found it behave very well as is.

If you were running downwind/following sea at hull speed then the AP behavior isn't so surprising. However if you were running at speed and/or upwind/ head sea I'd suggest checking out your steering and/or AP. I plod around at five knots all the time and the AP holds course +- five degrees unless in a following sea.

 

[bauerbach46]

Thanks for all the good replies! I will definitely check out your suggestions and advice! 😎