[genieskip]

Genie,
I've seen a big guy with a broken arm from doing something like that (tiller). So don't try this if you care about your vessel or bones

Quote:
Originally Posted by genieskip
Try a little experiment. Put the transmission in reverse and let the boat get some way on backwards with the rudder held firmly amidship. When moving briskly backwards turn the wheel one way or the other, making sure you have a good grip on the wheel (or tiller). Multiply the pressure you feel by the the kind of forces you would be experiencing in a storm condition and you'll have an idea of what I'm talking about. (disclaimer - not responsible for damage sustained by someone who tries this while going at or near hull speed)

Joms

You are absolutely right. Let me delete the word briskly above and replace it with the word SLOWLY. You'll get the idea of the forces involved on the rudder when going backward. Then visualize doing it fast and hard.