Rotary Helm question

[chrismarion]

Hello, this is my first post on this forum (which is awesome by the way) but I have been viewing it for some time. Almost any question I have has already been answered on here. <br /><br />I have a Safe-T Rotary Helm and the top of the shaft to hold the steering wheel on is rusting. The threads are pretty shot. Looking at the new helms, mine looks like it can be seperated,but does not have bolts holing it together. Cant tell if its riveted or molded at the EXACT spots the new ones have bolts. I would rather NOT have to pull the cable back through the hull and the center console might as well be molded in.<br /><br />Now, can I just use a tap/die set and make new threads that will need a smaller nut. Or am I going to have to replace the helm. Thats the only thing wrong. Its just the threads rusted off. Or does someone know exactly how I can take my rotary heml apart.<br /><br />Thanks for any help.

 

[ed/il]

Re: Rotary Helm question

I just replaced mine. I think I paid less then $80 for it. At that price it is easier to replace then repair the old one. It was an easy 40 min. job.

 

[paulie0735]

Re: Rotary Helm question

To the best of my knowledge the tapered shaft in the helm is not a serviced part so pulling it apart might not help you out much as you won’t be able to purchase a new shaft anyway. The nut is holding the wheel on but it is not actually a stressed component, you could cut the end off the shaft where the threads are and drill and tap the shaft, than fit a bolt and washer to secure the wheel to the shaft. Remember use only marine grade stainless steel for all fixtures and fittings and you will avoid the rust problems in the future.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Rotary Helm question

look on ebay and replace the helm. welcome to iboats.