Ericson 29 tiller wanted

[CapnRob85]

Looking for an E29 tiller. Online custom builders say it’s 1 7/8” width but my mount hardware looks like and measures 2”. Are they supposed to be a bit more narrow than the mount? Do you think it’s mandatory to use a drill press for the holes or can I just use a standard drill and vice? Do you recommend the epoxy finish or is varnish fine? I have a tiller cover from PO, so I’ll keep that on it. Any advice on where and how to purchase, and/or tillers for sale, please let me know!

 

[gabriel]

I had the same exact problem so I epoxied two pieces of wood on either side of tiller base then sanded to make it fit. I used an off-the-shelf West Marine tiller and a 5/8 quick release trailer hitch pin to keep it in place.

 

[CapnRob85]

I had the same exact problem so I epoxied two pieces of wood on either side of tiller base then sanded to make it fit. I used an off-the-shelf West Marine tiller and a 5/8 quick release trailer hitch pin to keep it in place.

Thanks for the feedback Gabriel. So instead of bolts and nuts you used trailer hitch pins, or you used the 5/8” quick release in another way? Did you actually adhere the wood to the tiller or more or less shimmed it?

 

[gabriel]

I believe my boat is a little different than your as I have a transom hung hung rudder but here are pics:


the wood I used to shim sits in the casting so can’t see it.

ps the pin was 1/2” not 5/8” don’t trust me or anyone for measurements!

 

[toddster]

Mine is indeed 1 7/8 and it is a snug fit. At some point in the past, somebody apparently cracked the bronze fitting trying to "make" something fit. Note that the new tiller I got from Ruddercraft was a bit shorter and lighter than the one that came to me with the boat. I'm still getting used to it.

 

[CapnRob85]

Mine is indeed 1 7/8 and it is a snug fit. At some point in the past, somebody apparently cracked the bronze fitting trying to "make" something fit. Note that the new tiller I got from Ruddercraft was a bit shorter and lighter than the one that came to me with the boat. I'm still getting used to it.

Thanks Toddster. I’m on a bit of a time crunch, as I am looking to complete a 35 nm transfer and my current tiller came apart last weekend while underway after I relaminated it with epoxy in an effort to recondition it, so it’s time to invest in a new. I am thinking I’ll try Gabriel’s method of shimming but I’m wondering whether that is going to be a problem long term and don’t want to buy two new tillers.