Steering & Centerboards - GRAMPIAN 34 Owner's Manual

STEERING & CENTERBOARDS
Tiller Steering
Most Grampians are steered by means of a tiller connected to the top of the
rudder shaft by means of a fitting called a tiller head and fork. This fitting interacts
with the rudder shaft by means of a key. If the key is worn, then there will be play
between the rudder and the tiller. If there is play, replace the key and do not over
tighten the fitting. It can never be tightened to ensure there is no play. The tiller
head and fork will crack well before a tight fit occurs. If your tiller head and fork
does crack, Grampian Marine can replace it at a small cost. It is often a good
idea the remove your rudder and lubricate the shaft each spring. This will ensure
smoother operation of the rudder and less wear on the rudder shaft bearings.
Wheel Steering
Once installed wheel steering requires very little maintenance and only periodic
adjustment. Each year you should check the following:
1. The gland packing box. This sits on the rudder post tube. It is located
under the quadrant and should be checked about once per month for
seepage. It can be tightened by the three bolts at the top of the unit.
(Some models - 1974 and prior - do not have the gland packing box.)
2. The cable should be checked for play and tightened if necessary. The
adjustment is located on the quadrant.
3. All sheaves are self-lubricating and do not need attention.
4. The emergency tiller is necessary with all wheel steering units. It attaches
to the top of the rudder post which is behind the steering pedestal. On
most boats a small plate or cover is on the cockpit sole over the top of the
rudder post top.
Centerboards (see diagram)
The centerboard assembly is the same for all Grampians - 23, 26, 30. The
system should be checked at least once a year for fraying cables and other
potential problems. Where electrolytic action is greater, the need for frequent
inspection is greater.
It is also important to ensure that the boards are kept free of foreign matter.
Regular cleaning and proper spring maintenance are essential for smooth
operation of the Center board.
If the board cannot be raised, a weighted rope slung under the bow and walked
aft can snag the board and hold it in a raised position until repairs can be made.
If the board cannot be lowered, then the board is most likely fouled. The boat will
have to be removed from the water and the mechanism removed and both the
board and the keel housing thoroughly cleaned.
18.