Loose steering

[Ron Brassord]

Another question on my new 1988 C30. There is about a good inch of play in the wheel, and I think I may need to tighten the steering cables? It looks to me like the only way to get to them is take up the sectiopn of cockpit floor immediately behind the pedestal? This panel seems to be well bedded, and held by four fastenings.Is there any other way to tighten the steering, and do I really need it? I hope I am not wearing out my welcome on this forum with questions. I am anxious to get everything shipshape so I can spend my time sailing not working. Good sailing Ron Brassord

 

[Trevor]

Steering quadrant

Hi Ron -I don't know what the access to the steering quardrant is like on the C30, but you should definitely get at it to do an inspection. On older C36s access is through the aft lazarette. I'll bet a Catalina 30 owner on this list can tell you how to get at the quardrant. You should inspect the calbes and pulleys, making adjustments as necessary (add lube too). It is an important safety issue to periodically inspect and adjust your steering system! Best of luck,Trevor

 

[David]

Access in lazarrete

Access to the steering system is through a hatch in the lazarette under the stern storage compartment. If you remove the hatch you can access the quadrant. No need to remove the cockpit floor, at least on a 1985 Cataline 30. Additional access to the steering cables is by removing the fiberglass panel in the aft quaerter-berth.