columbia 22 rudder help needed

[rudderless22]

I just acquired a Columbia 22 with steering problems. It has a homemade rudder and it doesn't work well, the boat won't tack! Can someone post the dimensions of the original so I can modify it if possible. Or better yet, does anyone have a spare lying around they want to part with? Never had a boat with a motor well , how does this effect steering and what do you do while under sail, and having it in the water has got to slow you down. Pulling it out and stowing sounds like a lot of trouble. I've seen picts with the kicker in back, was this well added? Help!

[BayviewBob]

The well was probably not added -- many of the original C-22s had that feature. Current owners have found ways to board it over and use a transom-hung outboard, although some continue to use the well. It's not a huge deal unless you're racing. It does take up cockpit real estate, however.

Regarding your rudder, I'm sure there are guys over on the Columbia 22 user's group that can help with dimensions. Go to Yahoo Groups online and search "columbia22sailboats" (one word).

See you there.

Bob Elmer
C-22 #319 "First Draft"