Hunter 340 console (pedestal) removal

[floridahunter340]

My first post, bought 1999 H340 last year. It has Edson CDi geared steering inside fiberglass cockpit center console, both appear to be OEM. The output lever pin (where drag link attaches on steering column side) is rubbing against the cockpit floor, so I want to add some clearance by shimming the steering column and console with washers:
- removed two bolts (horizontal) holding steering column to aft side of console directly behind the wheel;
- removed six 3/8" Phillips screws (vertical) holding the steering column to the floor (nuts accessed from aft cabin ceiling panel);
- removed six hex bolts (vertical) holding the console to the floor (nuts also accessed from aft cabin).

The steering column is now loose so can be lifted and spacing washers inserted between its base and the floor. However the console is stuck to the floor, it will only move very slightly when rocked, but won't come off so I can't insert washer to keep it aligned with the column. I tried to pry with crowbar, no joy. Could the console be stuck due to too much caulk, so I should try to (carefully) pry it some more maybe with heat gun? Could there be "invisible" bolts I missed?

Thanks for any suggestions.

 

[JamesG161]

Do not pry up anything!

Check your Owner's manual or Download it here.

H 340

You will break your steering connection if you pry.
Jim..

 

[floridahunter340]

JamesG161:
1) the console is disconnected from the steering column, and the steering column is disconnected from the drag link, so prying console does not impact steering system.
2) owner manual has no information on how the console is attached to the floor or how to remove it (I had already checked).
Thanks.