Stick steering question concerning '59 Model R

[Krichbourg]

I have a 12 ft. Model R. It is currently set up for tiller steering. It's kind of a long reach and I'd like to change that. I have little hope for finding a steering deck for this and I don't think I can afford to fabricate one.
I'm thinking about stick steering. Has anyone seen this on an old Alumacraft? Any thoughts or advise is appreciated.

 

[Wetteland]

Re: Stick steering question.

Re: Stick steering question.

take a look on e-save look up vintage steering wheels and I think they have a mid deck for you. you can buy now for 299 or make a bid. I don,t no if it will fit but I do know its for a alumacraft. good luck.

 

[River - Runner]

Re: Stick steering question.

Re: Stick steering question.

I have a 12 ft. Model R. It is currently set up for tiller steering. It's kind of a long reach and I'd like to change that. I have little hope for finding a steering deck for this and I don't think I can afford to fabricate one.
I'm thinking about stick steering. Has anyone seen this on an old Alumacraft? Any thoughts or advise is appreciated.

Krichbourg... I remember your boat since you first posted it. Wish I had one.

For a reference of this great 12-footer, I saved these pictures of this original kept remote steering model R. This boat sold on ebay for $1,955.00.

There is also a tiller steer model R. As the rear bench seat is located closer to the transom. Model R's were 12' boats only and the forward deck was a option on either boat.

Just my thoughts... I remember you having a tiller handle extension. It works, but it limits the steering, cornering and performance on this sport runabout boat. Stick steering would work, but keeping to the original design and character of this boat a steering wheel is preferred. Similar wheel and cable steering can be acquired.

For a standard tiller steer motor, sometimes I'll use a plastic insulated cooler for a seat. Or you could rig the boat with a removable extension of the rear seat, closer to the transom. But as you know keeping weight more centered in this boat makes performance ideal. Take your time working on your boat, keeping it as is or if making it like original. The boat is a true classic. Lucky you and congratulations for having it!

 

[sandusky]

Re: Stick steering question.

Re: Stick steering question.

I've got a front deck from a 14' "59" Flyng D that was set up for a steering wheel, I don't know if it will fit on you boat but if you're interested send me a P.M. Hope this might help. Sandusky

 

[Krichbourg]

Re: Stick steering question.

Re: Stick steering question.

Thanks for the cool pics River Runner. I think I had saved the first one from one of your previous posts. I hadn't seen the others. They will be a big help if I try to get a steering deck fabricated. My desire is to keep/make the boat as original as possoble. Money and parts availability are, of course, factors.

I'm doing a little work on my Marsh Queen now. I've made a new inner and outer transom. I have some Red Oak 4/4 for the inner, which is turning out well. The original White oak was long gone before I got it. I replaced a 1x6 plank that had no style to it at all. When I removed the motor for the first time, I discovered the transom cap is split in two. I'm going to have this piece made at the sheet metal shop as soon as I finish repairs on the trailor and get the boat to them. There are a few other metal repairs which I will get taken care of at the same time. I want to fix the holes that were drilled into the seats and fix a tear in the lip of the bow cover. I'll post pics when I'm a little furthur along. Right now, I've got a bunch of "before" pics. Stick steering is an idea that could get me remote steering in the short term.

Eventually, I'll have her looking like the pics you posted. You're right, the boat is a classic and I consider myself lucky to have it. If you come across a steering deck, I won't hold my breath, let me know. I'm also looking for a couple of original type oar locks. Mine are gone and I'd like to reinstall those as well. Thanks again for your input.