Independently Controlled Sidewheels

[Swordfish]

Paddleduckers:

I'm aware that some of the later sidewheel paddle tugs had independently controlled sidewheels that in some cases permitted them to "turn within their own length". I also believe that some of the English built American Civil War Blockade Runners had feathering, independently controlled sidewheels.

However, I'm not clear if this approach was used on the general run of sidewheel passenger and working craft of the mid to late 1800s ; in particular American coastal steamers.

Any information on the subject would be appreciated.

Best regards, Swordfish

[Stu Kerrn Sr]

Paddleduckers:

I'm aware that some of the later sidewheel paddle tugs had independently controlled sidewheels that in some cases permitted them to "turn within their own length". I also believe that some of the English built American Civil War Blockade Runners had feathering, independently controlled sidewheels.

However, I'm not clear if this approach was used on the general run of sidewheel passenger and working craft of the mid to late 1800s ; in particular American coastal steamers.

Any information on the subject would be appreciated.

Best regards, Swordfish

It was generall believed independantly controlled paddles were unsafe at some time because of their tight turning radius. I can't give a exact refference for this but I believe it is true.

[mjt60a]

...It was generally believed independantly controlled paddles were unsafe at some time because of their tight turning radius...

I'd heard that too, I don't think any passenger carrying steamers were permitted to have independant drives...
Maybe someone more knowledgeable could tell us when such a rule came into force - and how it was discovered!

[Eddy Matthews]

Walter Snowdon has researched this and as far as I know he's been unable to come up with any regulation that specifically states independant paddles could not be used on passenger vessels....

I'm sure Walter will jump in and give more information, but as far as I'm aware it's an old wives tale :-)

[Walter Snowdon]

Here goes, both feet!! For those who dont know him, John Megorran is the Captain and driving force behind the opperations of that lovely old paddler KINGSWEAR CASTLE and also runs the website of that name. (For me, the best full size paddler site in existance).
Johns knowledge on the history and opperations of paddlers is awsome.You need to see him do a "fery glide" to bring the KC alnogside without the slightest bump to understand..
A few years ago I had a chinwag with him about this subject and IT IS JUST A BIT OF FOLKLORE.
Early paddlers had such inneficient engines they needed two of them and it was simpler to have independent drives which could be coupled with a dog-clutch if required. As engines became larger, multi cylindered and more efficient, one only was required and the old system of uncoupling shafts (very awkward in a seaway) was done away with.
 Because paddle tugs were required to turn in very tight spots they retained two engines with separate drives to paddles and easily opperated  independent engines and no joining clutch on the shafts. This carried on even to the diesel electric era where the last of the paddlers were found more efficient for getting under the overhang of aircraft carriers for moving them.
 Old stories never die, but this one is covered in moss and folk tales!!!  Regards, Walter.

[Swordfish]

Stu, Eddy,Mick & Walter:

         Many thanks for your thoughtful and logical replies. They are sincerely appreciated.
         Will post anything more I may learn on the subject.
         With appreciation.
                                            Swordfish

[Stu Kerrn Sr]

Paddleducks   This Forum that gathers information from different continents and countries makes it a good site. There are many times that word meanings, say from the UK and the USA can be confusing. What appears to be the same language has different names for the same material. In the USA we use the term "modeling clay" and the UK has a completely different name. I really enjoy this web site.

[Eddy Matthews]

Paddleducks   This Forum that gathers information from different continents and countries makes it a good site. There are many times that word meanings, say from the UK and the USA can be confusing. .

Who was it that said "Two countries seperated by a common language"? Winston Churchill I think, but very true! :-)

[mjt60a]

I've been tempted to gather together the different names we use for the same 'object' and make a list - this post just reminded me to do so - then I thought, that must've been done already, and after a quick search - http://english2american.com/dictionary/wholelot.html - a bit 'tongue-in-cheek but it'll do  :?