Emergency Tiller Help Please

[Uncle Buck]

I have the arrangement pictured and am trying to fit the tiller just to be prepared in case I ever need to do it. It would appear that all I need to do is remove the single horizontal bolt, put the tiller in place, and install the bolt again....

I ask because the bolt is very hard to get out - after working at it for over an hour I managed to back it out only about 1/2".....is it likely just to be corrosion (I recently bought the boat and have no idea if anyone ever fit the tiller), or should I be loosening the vertical bolts (to me this does not make sense as it would appear to have no effect)?

Apologies if this post is in the wrong place....I could not find the appropriate forum.

[Wotname]

Yes, it is likely to be corroded (very likely). I suggest your remove it anyway even if only to clean it up and refit it.

It most likely is the right bolt but you will have to get it first to be sure.

[boatman61]

I'd slacken all the bolts a coupla 3 turns then apply heat to the area surrounding the horizontal bolt.... if you've the space use a punch to free it ( cannot see if it goes all the way through, but if its meant to hold the 'E'tiller it must).... replace it with a new bolt well greased...

[rustypirate]

What is the device we are looking at in the photo?

Is this the base fo the wheel pedestal?

Does this devise rotate when the rudder moves, or just the shaft below?

[Glen Lee]

try Liquid Wrench or some other penetrating oil.
let it soak 12 to 24 hours.
Replace it when you do get it out.

[delmarrey]

Originally Posted by Glen Lee

try Liquid Wrench or some other penetrating oil.
let it soak 12 to 24 hours.
Replace it when you do get it out.

Your a lucky man to have been able to move it at all. All the suggestion posts above are valid and you should take it out for maintenance.

If the bolt is SS it may only need wire brushing, but I would grease it up with a lithium based grease before reinstalling again. And I'd run a drill threw the hole to clean out some of the corrosion. Is that piece aluminum?

[ozskipper]

I would also ensure its not holding the rudder and post UP!

Cheers
Oz

[bruce smith]

'kroil" brand penetrating oil is excellent, and strong smelling.
Is that box a coupling or is it there only for tiller attachment?
Grease the bolts with lanolin
Can you leave the metal "cheeks" on ,and take the wood tiller off n on?

[Uncle Buck]

Got 'er out, thanks to all for the advice!