Both the TI and recent model AI's come with a screw thread in the rudder control lever, presumably for future fitting of a tiller extension. NOHUHU helpfully pointed out that this was a ¼" 20 TPI thread, the same as most cameras have, for fitting to tripods etc.
This means that a RAM 1" Ball with Threaded Post for Cameras (Part # RAM-B-237) can be screwed into the rudder lever.
Add a RAM Single Socket Arm with Octagon Socket (Part # RAP-B-200-1U)
and a Male Octagon Button with ½" Pipe Clevis (Part # RAP-321U)
and we have a universal ball joint socket for a tiller extension.
Here's how it looks fitted:
Notes:
- It works a treat on dry land, but I haven't yet tested it on the water.
-The threaded post on the ball is not very long, but it fits nice and tight into the thread on the rudder lever. I imagine it could work loose with continuous use, so I'm adding a bit of Loctite.
- The RAM Socket Arm is designed to be clamped down tight on the ball, to hold its angle. To use it as a moving joint, it needs to be clamped lightly - just enough to retain the ball. This leaves the Wing Nut loose also and I imagine it could come right off under field conditions. I added some 12g Neoprene Roofing Seals to act as spacers. With them in place, I can tighten the Wing Nut without clamping down hard on the ball.
- I used a piece of ½" wooden dowel for the handle, but only because my local hardware shop didn't have any ½" o.d. aluminium tube.
- The RAM parts cost $US 21.87 (plus postage) from GPS City in the U.S.