[C320-list] stiff wheel

[Warren Updike]

Edson recommends annual inspection of the chain, cables, sheeves, quadrant,
etc. of the steering.  This includes lubricating the chain and moving parts;
and, adjusting the cable tension if there is play in the wheel.  They have
instructions on their web site for this.
I confess I only do this about every two or three years as it is really a
pain to open the binnacle and cover in the aft cabin, not to mention
cramping my 70+ year old body into the bilge space to make the adjustments.
With the recreational use we make of the boat, I've found that the cables
generally remain tensioned from year to year.  Still, don't follow me,
follow the manufacturers recommendation.
It's a major issue if cables are very loose and jump off the quadrant.  

Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"

-----Original Message-----
From: Bill Sloane [mailto:southsoundbill at gmail.com] 
Sent: Sunday, February 05, 2012 11:31 AM
To: C320-List at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] stiff wheel

I took 'Endless Summer' out for a sail yesterday. The temperature was 30
degrees in the morning, but sunny. There was ice on the deck and seats, but
after we got out, the ice melted away. The steering wheel felt like it had
the brake on. I checked that. It was off. The wheel turns but with much more
force needed than normal.

Is this because of the temperature?  I am not sure how the wheel moves the
rubber. Is it mechanical or hydraulic?

Thanks.

Bill Sloane
Olympia, Washington
C-320 No. 554 'Endless Summer'