Installing a pedestal steering system in place of your tiller affords you the opportunity to design a functional and comfortable cockpit, which is, after all, where the crew spends most of their time.

A steering pedestal is often located well aft in the cockpit of cruising and racing boats, but mid-cockpit and forward cockpit installations are also possible. The key is careful consideration of the location of the rudderpost, winches, mainsheet, and engine controls.

The advantage of an aft pedestal location is that the helmsman is out of the way of crew members working winches. From this position, he or she can simultaneously see all the action, cast off sheets or tail winches, and participate in cockpit conversation while maintaining a complete view of the sails and rig. This is the preferred location for a steering pedestal among many racers.

In mid-cockpit installation, the helm is further forward where the boat is wider, allowing the helmsman to get further outboard. Instruments mounted in the cabin bulkhead are easy to read, and winches and cleats are more accessible to the helmsman, whether they are forward or aft of the helm.

Locating the pedestal forward in the cockpit places the helmsman close to the companionway under the protection of a dodger, out of the way of winches and mainsheet, and in a wide part of the boat where the head sails can be easily viewed. This configuration is preferred by many offshore cruisers and single-handers.

Edson has compiled over 2,200 steering data sheets which will aid in the installation of a new system. If you own a stock boat and would like a copy pertaining to your boat, you can call BoatUS at 800-568-0319. Our staff of technical specialists will provide you with information on steering system planning, sizing, installation, and maintenance.