And now maybe someone can help me to identify...

[Dick Dixon]

My Kirie Elite 37 has this access (see photo) over the top of the rudder shaft. Unfortunately I've been unable to remove the top despite trying multiple attemps. Thinking it is jammed, I have liberally sprayed it with silicon but it won't move. I tried removing the screw hoping to lift the whole fitting, however, that hasn't worked either...it won budge. Can someone tell me if this is threaded or just pushed into place? Dick Dixons/v CD EXPRESS

 

[David10790]

Emergency tiller port

I am not familiar with your boat but I believe that this is the access to your emergency tiller fitting. The top could be threaded or friction fit, but obviously if you can't get it off, it won't be very helpful if you need it! It looks to me that it is a pushed-on friction fit, but maybe you can get info from the manufacturer.

 

[Drifter13460]

tiller port

I am thinking it probably threaded, It looks pretty much like mine on my Irwin, witch was stuck shut when I first got her, I finly just got some channel locks and went for it and it finly open. tap on it first sometimes that helps loosens it up either way you should get it open and have the rod that fits to the back up steering. you never know when you might needed it. good luck and happy sailing

 

[KorculaChris]

According to the Elite owners' group

it is threaded.See the link which asks and answers your question:http://groups.yahoo.com/group/eliteownersgroup/message/424

 

[Landsend]

Why not remove the four screws?

and pull the plate off....

 

[Jeff]

Tiller

Looking at the size and definately the location, that's your emergency tiller opening.1. Order new cap using manufacturer part numbers, if this part is available.2. Start tapping. Tap with a mallet and screwdriver or similar object that will gets some traction. Tap in the direction of removal rotation. Like using an impact wrench, it will likely eventually give.3. Replace dinged up cap.4. Remove once a month and coat threads very lightly once a season with thin lubricant to prevent sticking.If it's welded with rustcorrosion you may have to use an easy out-type device or replace the entire port.