Tiller – Definition and Pronunciation
What is Tiller?
Tiller is a horizontal fixture, usually made of wood, that is connected directly to the rudder via the rudder stock or shaft. A tiller turns in the same direction as the rudder; hence to turn to port, the tiller is put over to starboard, and vice versa.
Examples of Tiller
Many steering systems are also based on hydraulic systems, which translate the wheel movements into the actions of the hydraulic ram that operates the tiller arm.
From “Equipment of a Sailboat: What You Need to Have on Board While Sailing”.
From “Stern Gear – Technical Recommendations for Inspection and Maintenance”.
As you turn the tiller, make your movement nice and steady. If you shove the helm all the way to leeward in a quick movement, you’ll separate the water flow over the rudder blade, and it’ll act like a brake. If everything goes correctly, the boat will turn through the wind and begin to fall off on its new heading.
From “Getting Underway and Sailing on the Sailboat”.
While this lacks the fine-tuning capability of a traveler, it’s much less expensive and simpler, and has the advantage of keeping the mainsheet above the tiller. The cockpit is much less crowded this way, and you can still get a lot of adjustment in the sail.
From “Tips on Rigging a Boat and Using Knots in Sailing”.
Pronunciation of Tiller
