[C320-list] Steering Cable

[Annie Bennett]

Ken, did it snap close to the compass?  On my first Catalina 28, the cable
snapped next to where the cable turns to chain.  As a precaution on our next
Catalina, Catalina 32 #812, I asked a shipwright to check the cable after 6
months at the same place.  It was nearly a quarter worn through.  The
shipwright lengthened the chain.  You can't check this with normal
inspection.  You have to remove the compass.

I haven't bothered checking this on our current Catalina 32 #1073 as the
steering wheel won't turn as far in either direction as on #812 so I think
the problem is less likely to arise.  Also we have a below deck autopilot
(Coursemaster) so if the cable were to break I can still steer with the
autopilot.  I think the emergency tiller on the C32 is very awkward and I
don't envy you your experience.

Annie Bennett
Topcat

-----Original Message-----
From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
[mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Ken Danko
Sent: Sunday, 12 October 2008 1:09 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Steering Cable

Hi all:

My steering cable snapped today, at this point I am not sure why. I 
examined it a couple of months ago and found it to be in perfect 
condition. The boat was made in 2000 so the cable, while original, 
wasn't really old.

Using the emergency tiller was an interesting and scary learning 
experience. I suggest that you try it before you find yourself, as I did 
today, using it in very choppy seas with 25 knot winds.

Ken Danko
Grace, 802


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