Control cable replacement
Remove the wheel, compass, break, and control handles. It's a good idea to stuff a rag or sponge down into the pedestal just in case you drop any small parts down the column. Remove the steering cable from the quadrant or radial; mark the position of the nuts with nail polish, or paint, on the cable before removing the nuts to help when replacing them. Remove the chain and cable from the column enough to inspect the chain to cable connection for its integrety. Replace these fittings, if necessary, since you won't want to do this all over again next year. I don't think that the chain and cable has to be taken completely out of the pedestal. If I remember correctly it is enough to just be able to move it out of the way. If you find that it does have to come out totally, then tie messenger lines to the ends of the cable to aid in reinstallation. Remove the screw which is on the aft side of the pedestal. This screw holds the clamp in place which, in turn, holds the control cables in place. Replace the control cables with Morse cables. This is no place to economize. The length and size of the cable will be stamped on the old cable. One or two long handle screw drivers will help in positioning the clamp for replacement inside the column. Make sure when replacing the chain that it is distributed evenly on either side of the sprocket, otherwise you will have wear taking place on the chain cable fitting as is rides up onto the sprocket, which it should not do. Also tension each side of the steering cable equally onto the quadrant/radial or the chain will not remain evenly distributed over the sprocket. The job will take the better part of the day. You might want to order the replacement control cables from Edson before you begin, as this may take a few days if they are not in stock at your supplier. Good luck with your new boat. If you want to contact me for additional information: captainpat@prodigy.net PAT
