Help with a Binding Lewmar Folding Wheel

[dswanson13476]

Sailboat 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. The starboard side of the wheel is so hard to fold, it seems like I am going to bend the wheel. The wheel does not appear to be bent, but I will look it closer. I have sent this email to Lewmar Technical Support and am awaiting a reply. Any sailboat 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.

Thanks!

Dave

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

 

[mortyd]

have you considered the remote possibility of contacting lewmar?

 

[Stu Jackson]

Have you considered lubricating the joint?