I had to replace my whole steering system as it rusted out and fell apart just after I bought the S2 8.5. I had a little trouble lining up the cable from the pedestal pulley to the rudder pulley. The previous owner had placed a large spacer under the pedestal to line it up. I added two puleys just in front of the rudder pedestal to push the cables down so they line up perfectly and not have wear on the cables due to misallignment. It was quite a job as room is limited on a 8.5. I also rebuilt the pedestal.If you have to do a lot with the steering I suggest you replace the cables as everyone always uses them way longer than Edson recommends. They should be replaced about every ten years per Edson, but most never have been replaced...including mine! But if you are halfway there anyway, consider it, but note that new cables will stretch and be a hassle short term.
I purchased an S2 9.2C, ex-San Diego December 2010, put it on a trailer, and moved it to Canada. Has Yanmar 3YM20, newish (2006) rigging, and is currently in my driveway in the Greater Toronto Area while I refit it. Currently have interior removed and have most teak sanded & varathaned. Lots of projects ongoing - maybe too many to have it launched till 2013!Looking for other S2 owners - who's gonna raise their hands?
I have the same vessel as yours and we love it. We have owned it since 1985 and currently sail it in Southern Lake Huron although we live in Kalamazoo. Love the boat. We can trade war stories on S2 boat owning "challenges". But I love the S2. When we bought her she was 2 yrs old but only had 8 hours on the engine. I could not have asked for a better boat over the years.have a '83 9.2A in Holland....would like to share notes with you