Update:
So yes I was able to install the new cables however I found it was much easier to follow these steps. pardon the non seaman language that may end up in this post.
1) remove the wheel and head of the post including compass and put it away
2) loosen the wheel cables from the steering mechanism to ease the tension on the chain so you can remove it
3) remove the chain by un-clipping a pin that holds it in place, be careful not to drop the inner circle thing inside the chain, if it does fall down don't panic you'll find it
4) i found disconnecting the entire base saves a lot of time and next time this would be the 1st step.
5) remove the post and lay it down forward
6) clean everything, its a mess down there not sure what the previous owner did but yes it needed some cleaning.
then follow the steps delivered by edison to remove the clip that holds the cables in place.
route the new cables in - very easy
I started at the engine and connected it, but learnt i needed to undo that to pull the extr length out of the tube to install the securing clip
finally when everything is reconnected stand up the post and secure.
reassemble the head
Done.
http://www.edsonmarine.com/support/PDFs/installation/EB396EngineControlInstr.PDF
After speaking with the engineer at Edson, I think my way is much easier than his complicated version. Sure its a lot of extra work but much less frustrating.
Finally, the 4 bolts that was holding the top down was so tight I broke 2 of my screw drivers had to drill them out then when they were clear I used a vise-grip to remove them one by one and had to to s home depo run to buy "4 x 1/4 - 20 x 4" stainless steel bolts with spring washers and just for the extra security to hold the plastic hub down I added 4 flat washers.
10 hour job, 2 x 6 packs and one pissed of wife = 100% success
