The Whitlock steering system, an option on our 1991 35s5 is another
element of these First series boats that sets them apart. Our previous
boat was a Tartan 30 and we've sailed plenty of other boats. Frankly,
the cable based system, accepted industry-wide, can't hold a candle to
the rack and pinion steering system on the 35s5. You have to try it to
truly understand. Even a properly adjust Edson wheel has slop compared
to the whitlock. You may not even be aware of it until you try the
whitlock. Every tiny input on our 35s5 wheel has a rudder response.
Feedback is also excellent, just short of a tiller accept that the
wheel offers great comfort as well. It's a shame that most builders
seek standards that are mediocre at best. True the Whitlock and similar
systems are double the price, but the advantages in performance and
durability are well worth it. When new the Wheel and Whitlock were a
stunning 6K option on the 35s5. Luckily, buying a used 35s5 gets you
into another world of sailing performance and a helm to match-Gary


Hoooh Ahhhhh!


RB
35s5...a better helm for a better boat!
NY