[C320-list] Steering lubrication and rudder post lubrication

[bruceheyman at cox.net]

When we got our 320 we asked similar questions.  There are no bearings or maintenance to be performed on the ruder post and shaft.  I was sent a drawing showing how to insert plastic shims into the rudder post log should the play become excessive.  The definition of excessive seems to be"...if the play or noise bothers you...".
Typically Edison recommends replacing the chain/cable once every five years.  You should disassemble the sheeves in the aft birth so that you can inspect and lube them.  There have been reports of the pins wearing through almost to the breaking point.
Bruce
Somerset 671 SoCal
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

-----Original Message-----
From: Melissa&Larry Leibman <theleibmans at verizon.net>

Date: Mon, 23 Mar 2009 10:56:39 
To: <c320-list at lists.catalina320.com>
Subject: [C320-list]  Steering lubrication and rudder post lubrication


Adam,
 
Your question about rudder post lubrication is very timely for me and one I was also hoping for some input on. Since purchasing my 320 last August I noticed that the steering effort is somewhat greater than I am used to from my previous boat. I am not entirely sure whether the issue is in the rudder post/stern tube assembly or in the binnacle/steering quadrant assembly (or perhaps both). 
 
This weekend I removed the binnacle compass to examine the state of the chain and to see if perhaps the wheel brake was binding at all. The brake seemed to be fine and although the chain should probably be cleaned and relubed, I don't think it is the cause for the steering friction. I'm not sure about the shaft bearings in the binnacle. Seems kind of hard to tell without removing them. I also removed the steering cover in the aft cabin, and again although the turning pulleys probably need some lubrication, nothing too obvious there.
 
My current thought is that the rudder post could use some lubrication. My previous boat had a grease nipple in the rudder post tube for lubrication. I don't see one here. It seems that the full weight of the rudder is supported by a bearing underneath the cockpit floor. 
 
Is this the case and is there any way to lubricate this bearing? Also at the top of the rudder tube appears to be a seal to keep water from entering. Is there any maintenance for this seal?
 
Thanks in advance