These pics should give a pretty good idea of what's happening.
When the crossbar is hooked up, it is very limited in the amount it can be turned to either side
It makes the tiller stay centered when released.almost like it's spring loaded.
If left like it is, it would eventually distort the holes in the tiller arms.
even if I force the tiller to the side very hard, the rudders will not go even half way to there full turn position.
It seems to me that the tiller should be able to be turned all the way from full port to full stbd. without binding.
There is only 6" of tiller travel before it begins to bind. this travel is only allowed by the slop between the attachment pins,the attachment holes in the tiller arms, and the same in the crossbar.
Note that the tiller crossbar is not being held in the raised or lowered positions, but is bound there by the angle of the tiller arm in relation to it.
I dont think that its a good idea for the tiller to self center. if the boat were to find itself sailing solo, It would potentially go in a pretty straight line, pretty fast.
And i'm not a strong enough swimmer to catch a cat straight up.
All you vets, dont be afraid to chirp in.
By the way, how long do I retain the title of newbie.