Hi Brian, I launch without the rudder. In your situation, I would be tempted to leave the rudder off and steer with the outboard. Just use the crutch to support the mast. Lock the OB ahead, raise the mast, remove the crutch and install the rudder. Maybe a minute at most, during which time you travel say 50 to 100 feet. How much room do you have to maneuver - or not maneuver as the case may be? If you drift ten feet right or left will that be a problem? A lot of small boat people remove the rudder when moored, so this would not be an extra step. Less wood maintenance that way! Or, make a gallows frame that will support the mast and double as a sun shade. I want to do that, but I fear I will never get around to it. Just my opinion. Best wishes, Steve R. M-15 #119 Lexington, KY --- "Brian Granowitz" <bgranowitz@hotmail.com> wrote:
MUST HAVE:
- Ability for 1 person to EASILY raise and lower the mast on the water with the rudder in place.