The original rudder on my '84 M17 doesn't have that configuration, Tom. It's a straight up-and-down affair, an enormous chunk of laminated mahogany, like the blade that Bob is using now (see http://www.montgomeryboats.com/images/m17-photo-b-16-500x.jpg ). I've switched to a kick-up . . . I would like to sail an M17 with that Hess blade, to see if there is a difference in the feel of the helm. --Craig
----- Original Message ----- From: "Smith, Tom" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "For and about Montgomery Sailboats" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2004 9:59 PM Subject: M17 Rudder Jerry said Lyle Hess designed the original under-slung rudder (no, that's not an authorized, technical term...). And if the goal was to balance the helm, it does a fine job. Our M17 requires just the lightest touch to steer, and weather helm is very light. The boat loves to sail itself... t Tom Smith & Jane Van Winkle Sandpoint, Idaho M15-345, Chukar M17-064, Unnamed _______________________________________________ http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/montgomery_boats
