WaveFront Tiller Clutch

[noelH]

Tiller clutch seems to be slipping in heavy seas and strong wind. Even when heaved to the clutch will slip if hit by a gust or rocked by a swell. Went to their website.  Didn't find any info about servicing or any replacement parts. Anyone take apart this clutch and know if there are any parts that wear with time that should be replaced.  Never had an issue with locking the tiller when heaved to.  Until yesterday.

Using original line, but have moved the line to a newer section. Original line is ~12ft long. Left intact to allow just moving the working section.

[Dave Scobie]

The line will wear and that can cause slip. It may not be visible but the line may be narrowed from the TillerClutch's squeezing. Contact WaveFront and ask Peter about replacement line spec or other servicing the clutch may need.

I wore through the control line on the company S17 in 3 or 4 years.

[noelH]

Thanks Dave. Will replace the line.  Have a large bin full of line.  Site notes 5mm. Hopefully a length of 5mm.

[noelH]

Wavefront contacted me regarding the clutch. Life time warrantee.  No diy user servicing. Press fit requiring specific tools to take apart. They recommended first trying a new rope. Also, noted with use the insides can get gunky and effecting the unlocking. Simple flushing with fresh water to clean out the residue from the rope dust and other contamination.  Solid company.  Have lengths of fresh 5mm Sampson LS braided poly line. Hopefully Sampson's 5mm is identical to the stock 5mm diameter. If not. Will order the OEM line from Wavefront. If the clutch still slips too easy. Time for servicing.