[C320-list] Troubleshoot C320 Binding Lewmar Folding Wheel

[Utility Email]

C320 Owners with Lewmar Folding Wheels:

I have a Lewmar folding wheel on my Catalina 320 sailboat. I have had it for 5 years since I purchased the boat new in 2007. It has folded flawlessly since new until about 2 weeks ago.  Now when I try to fold the starboard side of the wheel, it binds at the hinges and is very difficult to fold. It is so hard to fold, it sem,s like I am going to bend the wheel.  I have sent this email to Lewmar Technical Support and am awaiting a reply.  Any C320 owners with a Lewmar Folding Wheel have this same problem?  Any advice on how to fix this.  Barring any quick fix input, I will likely take apart the wheel at the hub to ensure that is is plumb.  

It is very disconcerting when trying to fold the wheel for storage after a day of sailing.  Please advise as to what I should do to fix this problem.  Any and all advice appreciated. 

Dave

Dave Swanson
S/V Emily Ann
2007 C320 MK II, No. 1107
Mukilteo, Washington