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When/when not to use a T-foil rudder

Started by Willbw11, 29 Mar 2017, 08:25

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Willbw11

Hi All,
I recently bought a national 12 (3517) and am curious. I have two rudders, one foiling and one not, and wondered in what situations I would be better off using/not using the T-Foil rudder. I think that whilst I'm training and getting to grips with things I'm going to use the standard rudder but after I've gained enough experience/control I will use the T-F in races.
What are your views?
Thanks in advance.

John m

Have a go with both as the feel will be very different.

Experience suggests the following:

       
  • 1. There is less feel with a T-foil - important in light winds
  • 2. T-foil provides both lift and drag.  In low winds drag can be a problem (also no "feel" see number 1)
  • 3. If you are not comfortable sailing the boat flat then T-foil is a handicap (but see number 4)
  • 4. T-foil makes high speed gybing and general windy sailing much much easier as it provides stability
  • 5. Wings swept aft and upwards (dihedral) seem to be quickest arrangement
  • 6. Wings catch weed - so think about where you are sailing
  • 7. T-foil is definitely faster as soon as you are both sat on the same side
Enjoy!



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