"Joe" wrote in message
oups.com...
Saw a neat set-up on my new neighbors hetch. He has a mini rudder or
trim tab on his rudder. Nice set-up solid bronze shaft and worm gear
thru the middle of the rudder shaft controlling a fine solid bronze
lever, top near the helm has a solid bronce trim wheel, I think it's a
trim wheel off a WWII bomber. Talk about balance!

Great looking 1962 Ketch mahogany buildt in Galveston she's called
"Rena". Solid bronze everywhere, and bright mahogany. I might Captain
her on a few bay charters this summer.

Ever seen a trimming system like this?

Yes, it was invented by Flettner.

Most likely he called it an Airelion(sp?) but it's a really just a cool
trim tab no matter what you call it.

The best thing about a Ketch is it's ability to balance..... has to be
better than any other sail configuration, not that I have that much
experience in other sail layouts.

Once I trimmed RedCloud so fine, I thought I engaged the auto pilot
and found out 2 hours later... still on course ....I forgot to engage
the autopilot clutch. :0)

Joe

"Joe" wrote in message
ups.com...
Most likely he called it an Airelion(sp?) but it's a really just a cool
trim tab no matter what you call it.

It's called the Flettner rudder. Search Anton Flettner. Also check out the
Flettner Rotoship, a rather unique sailboat.