Steering Gear Compartment

The steering gear for the LST is an electric motor driven gear quadrant and pinion system.  The gear was manufactured by Baldwin Locomotive Works, of Philadelphia.  It is capable of operating the ships two rudders from hardover to hardover (70º) in 20 seconds at a speed of 11.5 knots ahead and 8 knots astern.  The gear actuates 2 rudders through a vertical shaft at the center line of the ship, and one tiller in aft direction on each rudder stock connected by links to an equally long tiller on the center stock or quadrant.  The maximum rudder torque, with both rudders acting together is 580,000 inch pounds.  

For emergencies, the steering gear is provided with an independent quadrant emergency steerer.  It is also located in the steering gear compartment.  It is attached to the vertical shaft (mentioned above) and it turns the rudders via blocks and wire rope leading to a worm and worm gear operated drum.  The drum is designed that it can be operated by 4 men; 2 on each side.