Raymarine Autohelm 5000 User Manual page 21

5.2.2 DISPLACEMENT POWER
VESSELS
The Rudder control setting is much less critical
on this type of vessel and it is not normally
necessary to change the setting for different
engine speeds. As a general guide initial
testing should be carried out at setting '4' and
reduced as much as possible 'consistent with
good heading control to minimise wear and
tear on the steering 'system.
5.2.3 SAILING CRAFT
Sailing craft average hull speeds do not vary
greatly and thus the Rudder control setting can
remain fixed most of the time. Initial testing
should be carried out at setting '4'. Sailing craft,
however, are particularly stable when sailing
close hauled and under these conditions it is
usually possible to reduce the Rudder control
setting to minimise rudder movement and
hence power consumption. Conversely, when
sailing down wind, directional stability is least,
and improved course holding will result from
increasing the rudder setting. The optimum
range of adjustment is easily found by
experiment.