Integrated disengagement steering unit


Jefa Steering has developed a disengagement steering unit to be used in all Jefa WP700-WP900 cable steering pedestals. As most boats nowadays are equipped with twin wheel steering, the helmsman experiences an echo of the inertia of the non-used wheel. When sailing on autopilot, both wheels have to be speeded up and down continuously causing a high power consumption and wear. The ideal solution would be if the wheel could be easily disengaged from the mechanical steering system by the helmsman. The Jefa integral disengagement steering unit offers an unique solution.   Disengagement units in the steering wheel hubs do exists, but at very high costs and causing the steering wheel hub to be very bulky so only usable on big stainless steel double spoked wheels. Modern boats use smaller (twin)  wheels made of aluminium, carbon or GRP. Disengagement units for these modern wheels don’t exist on this moment.

What makes the Jefa integrated disengagement steering unit unique and an absolute innovation?

  1. Easy and safe to operate by simply rotating the brake knob of the steering system.
  2. The disengagement unit is fully invisible as it is integrated in the steering pedestal.
  3. Excellent styling as no parts, levers or mini wheels are sticking out of the wheel hub area.
  4. Significant safety advantage due to the non-rotating wheel(s) during autopilot cruise.
  5. Superb feel while manual sailing due to the lack of friction and inertia of the wheel not in use.
  6. No more unnecessary energy loss and steering system wear while sailing on autopilot.
  7. The intelligent construction uses tapered self-searching gears for quick engagement.
  8. Retrofittable to all thousands of existing Jefa cable steering pedestals.
  9. Affordable price level (€315 surcharge on an new system and €746 for a retrofit unit including new steerer (prices excluding VAT).

Please have a look at below video showing the functioning of the disengagement steerer.