MacGregor 26M Steering

The MacGregor 26 has a pedestal mounted steering wheel, rather than the cumbersome tiller found on most trailerable sailboats. In the 26M, the tubular pedestal takes up far less floor area than formerly in the 26X.

It is far easier and more natural to steer with a wheel than with a tiller, and a lot more comfortable. The mainsheet mounts to the top of the steering pedestal, and can be reached from anywhere in the cockpit.

The steering wheel connects to the twin rudders for sailing, or to the outboard motor for powering. With the wheel connected to the motor, and the rudders retracted, you steer as you would with a conventional powerboat. (When you turn the steering wheel, the engine turns.) When under power at moderate or high speed, the kick up rudders are in the up position to reduce drag. For excellent control at low speed, the wheel is connected to both the engine and the rudders. Changing the steering system between rudders and engine takes only a few seconds.

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