new CD31 questions

[Michael Soloway]

I just purchased a 1984 CD31 and am having several problems that I cannot solve alone. The transmission shifter cable has broken loose from where it attaches to a cast arm just aft of the transmission. I do not know if the entire assembly and clamp needs to be replaced. The clamp, I think, as broken, but, without a description of what normal looks like, I am at a loss. If I needed a new cable and associated clamps, where would I get such a thing and who could I contact to find more information?

Any/all help would be much appreciated.



m@msoloway.com

[Tom]

I just purchased a 1984 CD31 and am having several problems that I cannot solve alone. The transmission shifter cable has broken loose from where it attaches to a cast arm just aft of the transmission. I do not know if the entire assembly and clamp needs to be replaced. The clamp, I think, as broken, but, without a description of what normal looks like, I am at a loss. If I needed a new cable and associated clamps, where would I get such a thing and who could I contact to find more information?

Any/all help would be much appreciated.

I can't remember what the original looked like any more, but when mine broke about 10 years ago, I replaced it with a unit made by Pathfinder Marine for the Volkswagen conversions. If they're still in business call John Scherer at Pathfinder Marine (514) 421-7322. Much nicer unit than the original, bolts right on to the Hurth tranny and not expensive. As far as the cable itself goes it's just a standard Morse cable available at any engine parts supply house. I couldn't find one short enough so had to get a longer one and coil it once. Measure what length you need, the diameter, note the type of fitting etc. and go talk to the man at the engine parts house. Actually they might have the clamp too because many many engines use the same Hurth transmission. (Universal, Perkins, Westerbeke, et al) The hard part of that job is getting the binnacle apart because the stainless bolts tend to fuse into the aluminum. Once the binnacle is apart you unbolt the arm that holds the cable and pull it up where you can get at it. Attach the new cable and then lower it and bolt the arm back in. It's all self evident once you get inside, but it's awkward working in there. When you put it back together coat the bolts with alumax or lanocote to make them easier to get out the next time.

Isn't this board great?

Tom Coons
CD 31 # 15 "Heiress"
in California.



TomCambria@mindspring.com