Rudder control is important. If there is a lot of slop in the rudders, you will not be able to hold a course well or stay in the 'sweet spot'. Check the linkages should be very little play. Also be sure to shim between the rudder and rudder housing. I use some homemade 1/8 inch thick Teflon 'fender' washers (one on each side of the rudder) and there is virtually no slop (sweet). Also with the 17 I align the rudders to be parallel, then toe in about 1/2 turn and adjust the rudder rake so there is very little weather helm except when pointing in high wind.

Thanks yet again. I am re-fitting my tillers - there is wobble where the tiller enters the casting. I have profiled my blades and re-painted but have not even looked at the fit for slop. I also have new tiller/crossbar connection. I will make sure the whole system is tight.

I am hopeful of being in the water in 4 weeks followed by e few weeks sorting out, but meantime school has started again so that might interfere a bit. Fortunately sailing is good all year, with SE trade winds 10-15-20 knots and warm waters...