Wanted: removeable tiller post cap

[cdh4088]

I am looking for a tiller post cap for a 78 E32-2, it has a square peg to mount an emergency tiller, mine is cracked:




Anyone got a spare one of these or know where I can buy one?

 

[Loren Beach]

If it is chrome bronze, I am not sure how repairable it is. If SS, it can be welded and buffed out. Others here may have some ideas.

 

[cdh4088]

Its chromed bronze, and one of the clamping ears has broken off. If brazed, it would probably break again. Hopefully I can find one for sale.

 

[Loren Beach]

I wonder if you have a metal working / welding / fab shop near that does small projects like this? I know a guy that loves little challenges in SS like this sort. There are places that part out older boats. Perhaps some suggestions will come in.....

 

[Afrakes]

I would get it brazed. Then when installing it use metal shim stock to take up most of the play. Once the fitting or shaft wear to a certain point you are asking that tightening mechanism to do more than it was designed for. I had this problem on my E-27 and solved it with shim stock.

 

[Christian Williams]

+1

 

[Jerry VB]

In addition to what @Afrakes says, don't over-tighten the bolt. It needs to be tight enough to prevent the head from slipping on the rudder shaft, but DO NOT attempt to make the ears come together.

Note that there is a through-bolt as a backup to the friction hold of the tiller post cap so, if you under-tighten, it will be sloppy but steering will still work. If that happens, tighten it a bit more to prevent slipping.

 

[Afrakes]

Caution on overtightening the through bolt to remove the slop in the fitting. Overtightening the through bolt will add additional strain to the casting. The tiller head is cast and therefore rigid. Please use shim stock to take the slop out of the fit of the tiller head and shaft.