Pedestal Change IP35

Hayden, This question is mainly for you, but may help someone else in the future. Considering switching to a traditional pedestal and sourcing parts. Not at the boat this weekend, so a couple of questions. The rudder shaft is 2", correct? How long is the drag link on your setup?

Thanks for taking the time to do that, we really do appreciate you. Is there a reason to go with the Edson over the Lewmar Cobra Enguard, which is essentially the same as the original on the 35?

On Ebay, there are complete pedestals that are new and overstock from FINNGULF Sailboats. $1300 total with shipping to the US. They come complete with pedestal, drag link, Tiller Lever, guard rails, etc. It seems everything is in spec on the size end of things and the helm is essentially the same helm IP installed sans the wheel and mechanics. With the only thing missing to bore the tiller arm after getting an exact micrometer reading of the rudder post.

Ebay Link

What am I missing as this seems too good to be true to switch out to a standard helm, keep the original look, and best of all for ~$1500 total?

We did purchase the helm and the specifications all look good for a fit. One question I have. Did you cut a key-way in the rudder post and if you did, how did you do it in the boat?

The machine shop who is boring the tiller arm thinks a bolt is a bad idea as too much torque on it and suggests cutting a keyway in the arm and shaft. Don't really want to drop the rudder, so he also suggested having the key tig welded on the shaft. Obviously Edson felt the bolt was fine for our boat since they will build them either way. Think we may just go that way as I am not crazy about dropping the rudder or welding in the boat.