Tandem rudder onto an Outback ???

I was down my local Hobie centre today and I was after a sailing rudder to upgrade the standard item on my Outback. He didn't have one in stock, though I was given an older style tandem rudder (I believe) to try FOC. It fits a treat, though is a couple of inches longer than the sailing rudder. It raises and lowers just fine without undue effort. So what do you reckon?, too large??. I could trim is down and profile it if required. I've only just fitted it and not tried it on the water yet, though I do have a sail kit and intend to sail it from time to time.

Standard rudder


Sailing rudder


Tandem rudder

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I would try it out on the water before trimming any part of it off. The larger rudder might just be the thing to have. Good Luck and let up know how it worked out.

The large size of the rudder will add drag. That would be the only real issue. I think it is over-kill on an Outback unless... maybe sailing it.

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Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

You may well be right. It didn't cost me, if it's not suitable I'll put a sailing rudder on. It'll be tested in a week or two, first I've got a trip to Texas!

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KEEP the sailing rudder , The outback is far more responsive , turns on a dime AND tyrcks way better with the extended rudder .
KEEP IT
You will be VERY HAPPY you didnt trim it .
I up graded my outback ,with a sailing rudder and couldnt be happier

I'd keep a spare rudder pin in the boat just in case the larger rudder adds more force to the pin, but if it works, why not keep it? It should give you what you're looking for, and the price was right!

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