Southern Cross 28 Steering Issue

[ChinaCat]

I have a 1981 SC 28 that came factory tiller upgraded with an Edson Pedestal/Wheel at some point in life. The wheel/rudder is very bound up and turns only with great strain (not functional) for being underway. Wheel to rudder seems engaged but very hard turning. I'm on the hard now- its very tough getting access to the workings but pullys and cables seem aligned, the chain from the pedestal seems good. There is no apparent damage to the rudder. Anyone with experience or suggestions?

[SVTatia]

Originally Posted by ChinaCat

I have a 1981 SC 28 that came factory tiller upgraded with an Edson Pedestal/Wheel at some point in life. The wheel/rudder is very bound up and turns only with great strain (not functional) for being underway. Wheel to rudder seems engaged but very hard turning. I'm on the hard now- its very tough getting access to the workings but pullys and cables seem aligned, the chain from the pedestal seems good. There is no apparent damage to the rudder. Anyone with experience or suggestions?

Have you been maintaining the mechanism - Lubricating, checking the chain and cable pressure, etc?
Troubleshooting:
Do you have an emergency tiller? If so, install, disengage or loosen the steering cables and check, if still hard to turn it could be the rudder or post.
While the cables are loose or disengaged, is the wheel turning easier?

[ChinaCat]

I just bought the boat knowing I had this issue, seems well maintained otherwise, yes your suggestions are our next step. thx!

[SVTatia]

Originally Posted by ChinaCat

I just bought the boat knowing I had this issue, seems well maintained otherwise, yes your suggestions are our next step. thx!

You have a beautiful boat, I hope you find the problem, good luck and keep us updated.

[5BTM]

Lubricate the needle bearings.
I did on my CS27 and the steering became smooth as silk.

For the rest I use Fluid Film.

https://www.fluid-film.com/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQmv3UHzXd4

[Calif.Ted]

The wheel/rudder is very bound up and turns only with great strain (not functional) for being underway.

How big is the wheel and steering quadrant ? I've been aboard a few tiller boats converted to wheels and they were as you describe. Normally wheel would be 36" or more and quadrant with radius of 8" or a 16" diameter that usually won't physically fit.

[double u]

IMHO the thing to do with the wheel steering on a 32footer: throw it out!

[SailingHarmonie]

Is this a new problem? or an ongoing one?

If the boat is new to you did the surveyor have a comment?

[5BTM]

Originally Posted by double u

IMHO the thing to do with the wheel steering on a 32footer: throw it out!

Agree with you 100%.

However, "throwing it out" leads to moving the engine controls, probably new engine control cables, taking care of the hole in the cockpit sole, rerouting wires and finding new location for whatever bling is attached to those wires and the most important, new place to put your drinks.