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Fixing Control Line Slip or Wear

The TillerClutch is designed to be tough and reliable.  It will provide years of effective service, when it is installed and used correctly, and flushed out with water periodically. The supplied double-braid, abrasion-resistant control line should last very well.  But, being a small rope in hard use, it must be cared for.  It should exhibit only minor “fuzzing” of the outer jacket as long as it has not become UV damaged. If you suspect your control rope is wearing out too fast or not holding properly, please read the following guidelines.  If you experience any of the problems listed below, your control line is likely worn and should be replaced. You can buy our replacement control line or you can make your own as instructed below.  Continued use of a worn out, frayed control line can cause tough lint to build up inside the TillerClutch mechanism, hampering its operation or jamming it and requiring service.

 

Issue: Wear occurring while the boat is docked or moored and not in use.
Cause: In this case, the TillerClutch is being used to lash the tiller on a long-term basis. Ceaseless water action on the rudder can eventually fatigue the outer jacket of the line at the pinch-points and separate the fibers. (This is not a problem during regular use.)
Solution: When the boat is not in use, either use a separate line for lashing the tiller, or loosen the control line enough to throw a loop over the tiller from each side, then tighten it again. (Just remember to unwrap it before sailing!)

 

Issue: Wear occurring from rough use.
Cause: Excessive wear can occur from frequently overpowering the TillerClutch without first clicking the lever to release the clutch. The clutch is meant to grip the line firmly, so forced slippage can eventually abrade and wear out the outer jacket of the line.
Solution: Develop a habit of clicking the lever “off” to make steering corrections. You will also find that you get a better sense of how the boat is sailing without the friction.

Issue: The TillerClutch is slipping frequently under sail. Infrequent slipping is acceptable and can help protect boat rudder from overloading. But too much slippage can fray the line. There are five possible causes.

  1. Cause:Trash buildup within the TillerClutch. Rope lint, sand or dirt accumulated in the mechanism can impede holding performance.
    Solution: Remove the control line. Lift the tiller and pull out any visible lint or debris with tweezers. Try to flush out any debris with water, until you get a clean, sharp click with the lever. (Never use WD-40 or other solvents or oils, and do NOT try to disassemble it due to high spring loading). If cleaning does not restore proper function, or if you have any doubt, return your TillerClutch to WaveFront for free servicing.
  2. Cause:High tiller loads. Heavy tiller loads can be due to a heavy weather helm, sailing frequently in rough conditions, or sometimes, just having a heavy or a large sailboat.
    Solution: In this case, you may need the doubled holding power of the TillerClutchX model. To upgrade to the “X” model, please contact us.
  3. Cause:Incorrect rope used as the control line. If the line is slightly large, it will drag through the mechanism causing improper friction and wear. A rope that is too small, soft, or slick will not produce the needed gripping power within the clutch. Inexpensive rope lacks the needed wear resistance.
    Solution: Install a replacement control line from com, or make your own as instructed below.
  4. Cause: The TillerClutch is mounted too far aft (back) on your tiller, or the tiller is too short for the boat, or the lines are routed too close to the rudder. Shortened geometry affects the holding ability of the TillerClutch, causing excessive slippage that will damage the rope.  Improper positioning also makes it much less convenient to access and less safe to use.
    Solution: Re-mount your TillerClutch under the tiller with the front screw 6” to 7” (15-18 cm) from the forward end of the tiller. Install a correctly-sized tiller for your model boat if necessary. Re-route the lines if needed.
  5. Cause:Damaged TillerClutch.
    Solution: If your TillerClutch is damaged, broken, or malfunctioning in any way, please contact us regarding our limited lifetime warranty.

Issue: The TillerClutch will not stay disengaged, or when the line is removed, the lever makes a dull thud rather than a sharp click sound.
Cause: An accumulation of rope lint or debris inside the mechanism is limiting lever movement.
Solution: Remove the TillerClutch and the control line.  Soak it overnight in warm soapy water, working the lever occasionally.  Then, while working the lever, spray a jet of water into it from all sides.  This will dislodge the caked debris and make it accessible to you with a small pick or bent wire. You may have to repeat the process to restore the firm clicking and lever remaining in place. (Please never use WD-40 or other solvents or oils, and do not try to disassemble it). If cleaning does not restore proper function, or if you have any doubt, you may return your TillerClutch to WaveFront for free servicing.

 

For Servicing or Warranty

WaveFront is committed to offering the best customer service. If you experience any problems or have questions, please contact us and we will respond as quickly as we can.

Making Your Own Control Line
Be sure to prepare the ends to fit easily through your TillerClutch.  You will make sealed ends that are no larger than the rope itself: Tightly wrap the line with paper masking tape, cut the rope through the tape with a razor knife, melt the ends with a flame, and then unwrap the ends.  The TillerClutch and TillerClutchX use 5mm control line rope. This rope must be a firm double-braid with an actual diameter close to 5mm or slightly smaller. It should run smoothly through the device and be resistant to abrasion.  The following ropes have passed our careful testing procedures, and are recommended for TillerClutch use:

Approved Ropes for Replacement Control lines 

  • New England Ropes – Sta-Set 3/16 (5mm) (Original control line)
  • New England Ropes  –  Finishline 5mm
  • Teufelberger  – Sirius 300 XG 5mm
  • FSE Robline  – Orion 500 5mm
  • FSE Robline  – Polyester 16 double braid
  • FSE Robline  – Dinghy Control Line 5mm SK-78 Dyneema core
  • Samson  – LST Yacht Braid 3/16 45001240
  • Novabraid, Canada  – XLE Performer traditional tan 3/16″ 5mm double braid

Also, we offer prepared replacement control lines all ready to go.

For Servicing or Warranty
WaveFront is committed to offering the best possible customer service. If you experience any problems or have questions, please contact us and we will respond as quickly as possible.

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