Once you remove the top sleeve from the shaft and the 2X6 you will see how it comes apart much better. The only bearings are plastic sleeves. Remove the 3 screws that are vertical through the steering sector before you loosen the bolts that hold the halves together. Once you loosen the bolts the shaft will slide out. I put a jack under the rudder on the outside and had someone lower the rudder. My rudder came right out through the dry packing. I'm hoping I remember where to put all the Teflon washers when I reassemble. Here are pictures of the parts.
I wished I had the centerboard option in ours. If you have not found it yet here is a video by probably the most knowledgeable guy around when it comes to this boat.
We have a blog on our project.
http://thisoldpieceofshit.blogspot.com/ We haven't been posting lately due to other household projects.
What year and engine do you have?
If you would like my email is the second name of my screen name and ssolar @ gmail (note the s in front of solar). My wife, Lee, and I are always interested in 8.0 projects.
1) rudder hanging in garage 2) steering sector resting on packing gland 3) the parts minus the vertical screws and bolts holding the 2X6