[SailinJay]

I don't think it's a good idea to use this to lock the wheel while sailing. Even an autopilot allows for a bit of swing in the rudder. I'll leave it to the technical experts to articulate a more detailed response, but I don't think you want to eliminate play in either the wheel or the rudder, especially in heavier air. You need to be in control of the boat, be ready to adjust to the extant conditions, and be prepared to quickly fall off or head up.