Pedestal Strip Down

Q: My 1981 Islander Freeport 36 has a broken shift linkage, which is actually sheared in the threaded section at the shift lever. My problem is that I can't get the Edson pedestal apart to get to the bracket/clamp holding the end of the shift and throttle Morse cables. There are four long screws (about 4"/10cm) attaching the collar that holds the shift and throttle levers to the main pedestal post. I've gotten two out but the other two are really stubborn. I'm afraid I've pretty much destroyed the slot in the screw heads. Do you have any suggestions for getting these screws out? They are essentially freestanding except for the bottom 1/2" (12mm) that is screwed into the pedestal. Also, the bracket holding the cables is midway down the inside of pedestal and seems to be attached with one screw that is accessible from outside the pedestal. I can't tell if the clamp is two pieces, which will separate when I release the screw (and fall into the pedestal) or a one-piece unit that remains attached to the cables and comes out when I pull them up.

A: According to Fred Johnson of Edson, you likely have a 300 series pedestal. Over time the 7x19 wire, which is part of the steering system, eventually saws through the Teflon lining of the conduit and inhibits the steering system from moving, especially where the wire turns corners. Based on your boat's vintage, you're looking at replacing the chain-to-wire system, conduit system and conduit end fittings. Depending on what else may be wrong, replacement parts could cost $500. Before proceeding, request a free data spec sheet from Edson customer service at 508/995-9711, which provides a complete schematic of your pedestal. The four stainless-steel bolts at the top of the pedestal fasten the compass to the aluminum pedestal. Being dissimilar metals, these seize without frequent service. To remove, cut off the bolt heads with a rotary (Dremel) tool or use a large Phillips screwdriver held in Vise-Grips and torque the bolts until each sheers off just below the heads. Now lift off the engine control and compass and then apply lubricating oil to the bolts and spin them out. When reinstalling new bolts, coat with Never Seize, lanolin, Lubriplate or Tel-Gel to isolate from the aluminum. Fred recommends purchasing bolts from Edson as they have a mil-spec coating to prevent galling.

— Jan Mundy