Dave,

I am not sure about the mast rake vs. tug (weather helm) on an H-16 but have always understood that the rudder rake will have a big effect on it. It can be adjusted by setscrews in the rudder casings and by then adjusting the latch that locks down the rudders.

Generally, as you rake a mast back it moves the center of effort on the sail further aft. In a centerboard boat, the center of resistance is near the board so the C of E and the C of R make a turning moment trying to turn the boat into the wind (as long as the C of E is aft of the C of R). When the C of E is foward of the C of R, the boat wants to turn downwind, a lee helm, and a dangerous boat. I don't know how to judge the center of resistance on an H-16 which uses the hulls alone to prevent side slip. I imagine weight balance would affect it. I also sail a catboat which is a monohull which is notorious for strong weather helm. In that boat it is possible to adjust weather helm by adjusting the angle of the centerboard which changes location of the C of E.

Howard