[C320-list] Steering "clunk"

[Kaare Wold]

Skippers,  This is our first season with our C320.  2003 #945.  We are 
experiencing a noticible "clunking" noise when moving the wheel from left to 
right or visa versa.   Inspecting the steering cables, sheave on the rudder 
post did not show any abnormal condition.  Further troubleshooting had us 
remove the emergency tiller access plate that clearly revealed the problem. 
The metal rudder shaft appears to have excessive play at the top that 
results in the shaft striking the rudder tube when the steering wheel 
direction is changed.  Surprisingly, there does not appear to be any sort of 
bearing (or maybe mine is totally worn out) at the top of the shaft.  I may 
add that this clunking noise is not noticible if steering gently or slowly. 
However, a rapid change in wheel direction results in this noise.
Has anybody else experienced this noise and have any suggestions for a 
remedy.  Thanks for your comments.
Kaare Wold   Sheet Music, #945