The Jan Alkema article (the latter link on the previous post) claims that the system has worked well for 25 years... go figure.

EDIT: an article also on Catalyst, here.

David,

How about modifying the pendulum system this way?

Apparently the origin of the idea comes from here.

Yes,

a trim tab has been popping up in my head, too. But I really wouldn't like to lose the beutifully-working pendulum system, especially in the following winds. But I might not have a choice :/

Was there a plan of the Fanshi self-steering available?

And to David T #2: Yes, Wharram lashings with 5mm dyneema. The tiller fitting is from a much bigger boat than mine, so I wouldn't be worried. 

A bigger photo here (which still doesn't show the fitting realistically because of the perspective).

Jamie wrote:

Almost looks like she's always been like this :) 

However, I kept the rudder very wide/long (depends on which way you look) above the waterline. This will make it hard to install the David-style self-steering system I built last year. I really want to be able to lift the system up when not in use. This will make it even harder.

Also, I really need to make stoppers for the rudder and/or outboard (to be installed on the port side), to save the wide rudder from the perils of the propeller.

Congratulations on a job well done! I like the look of that balance area below the skeg. And it looks as if you have used the Wharram type lashings? It is a bit hard to tell from the photo. The only thing I am not so sure about from the photo is the strength of the rudder head/tiller attachment, but with the balance area the tiller loads should not be too great. Next thing is sailing !

Thanks, I always seem to forget rhe right way of adding photos...

The iroko part is 45x65 mm and there is a 3mm ss bar in between the hardwood and transom/skeg. The skeg is not bolted in through the hull.