I recently purchased a '90 CD28 (power). From the outset, the steering was extremely stiff. I removed the steering quadrant and could not turn the rudder post with a 12" pipe wrench- the hydraulic steering system was bearing a tremendous load!
Today, after having the boat hauled, we found that the bottom of the rudder post rests in a casting with a teflon collar insert which actually contacts the rudder post. This bottom fitting was extremely tight on the shaft.. so tight that it could only be removed with brute force.
Using a contrived, rounded sanding stick, we were able to increase the inside diameter of the collar so as to get a reasonable fit. The steering now works fine.
I am mystified as to what happened here. I cannot imagine the teflon swelling over time. Did this boat leave the factory in this condition? If so, I am amazed that the hydraulic steering system has survived this loading for nine years.
Anyone out there have any thoughts on this subject?
shinptpaul@aol.com
CD28 (power): Problem with lower rudder post bearing
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