These are the new stainless tiller straps that I used to replace my old wooden forked tiller. They are normally used on J/22s and J/24s but they work great on my 1975 ODay 22. Note that I used some nylon washers in between the straps and the head of the rudder to reduce/avoid any friction--they work great. Note also that the bolts I used were longer than needed so I put washers, nylock nuts and then acorn nuts on the ends. I discovered after doing so that an added benefit to their extended length is that I can tie my sunbrella tiller cover around the nuts, making for a rather secure attachment point.

Tiller Straps Top View

In this view, you can see that the new tiller does not go all the way back against the rudder head--there is a small space that I left, after positioning and measuring, between the two. That space just barely keeps the butt end of the tiller from rubbing on the rudder head but also allows the tiller to be raised completely vertical (if needed). I typically raise it for tacks and duck underneath to switch sides. Note also that the butt end of the new tiller, while kept away from the rudder head, was also carefully positioned to just rest on the little ledge of the rudder head (underneath the butt end). That little ledge keeps the tiller from falling or being pushed below horizontal position, avoiding any friction/damage to the stern rail by the straps and also avoiding a sloppy looking, floppy tiller as I have seen on other boats.

Side View of Tiller Straps

In this photo, you can see the 7 rise along the length of the new laminated tiller. It is, in my opinion, the perfect size for this boat and the rise avoids any knee banging or stomach hitting common with straight tillers. It also allows me to sit almost against the stern rail and steer, making more room in the cockpit for crew/passengers.

Full View of New Tiller and Straps