New helm components

joefish · Posted: Mon Apr 09, 2012 8:22 pm Post subject: New helm components

Wouldn't you know I got this idea from the "Small purchases that make a difference" thread and it ended up costing me some $$$. Specifically, I was interested in adding a steering wheel spinner, less than $10. Anyway, when I found the spinner I liked, it was attached to a wheel that I really liked. It was a couple inches smaller diameter and was smooth, bare metal so I could slide into the helm seat much easier. Getting in and out of the helm seat had been a constant problem for me. The wheel also has a "ComfotGrip" on the back that feels really good. Made by Edson -- good stuff. Unfortunately, even when I found the best price it was still expensive.

I had also been wanting a footrest to prop my feet up on during long cruises. This one by Garelick works great.

Both were super easy installs. Photos in photo album.

JamesTXSD · Posted: Mon Apr 09, 2012 9:05 pm Post subject:

Hope you don't mind that I post the image...

Looks good! Thumbs Up

C-Hawk · Posted: Mon Apr 09, 2012 10:05 pm Post subject:

Yes- it does look good

CougarMtn · Posted: Mon Apr 09, 2012 10:07 pm Post subject:

I like both your wheel and footrest. Where did you purchase them from? I had the same issue with the helm hitting my legs, but was able to raise the dash almost 2 inches. I still wouldn't mind a smaller wheel though, especially one like yours. Thumbs Up

joefish · Posted: Tue Apr 10, 2012 8:42 pm Post subject:

Here are the "cheapest" places I could find.

http://www.starmarinedepot.com/Edson+Steering+Wheel+with+PowerKnob+14+5+SS.html

http://www.google.com/products/catalog?hl=en&rlz=&q=garelick+teak+footrest&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=8940987701685554022&sa=X&ei=n9CET43wOoXZ0QGpq7WzBw&ved=0CHQQ8wIwAw#ps-sellers

The install for the wheel was as easy as unscrew center cap, remove and replace wheel. Perfect fit.

The teak step was also an easy install on my boat since there was nothing mounted behind it on the V-berth side of the bulkhead. Drilled 3/16" holes and used 1" bolts with a standard washer and nut. Also, I will mention that the footrest folds up so it does not obstruct the storage hatch below.

hardee · Posted: Wed Apr 11, 2012 12:25 am Post subject:

I like that foot rest. Does it look like it would work for a full weight bearing step, as in from the cockpit sole up to the gunnel for disembarking, if it were mounted appropriately?

Harvey
SleepyC Moon

Captains Cat · Posted: Wed Apr 11, 2012 6:53 am Post subject:

Harvey, I think that pivot point where the step attaches to the mounting brackets would be the weak point. I believe it's correctly called a "foot rest" and not a "step". Garelick does make some 2/3/4 step cockpit steps that would work for you though. We've had these both on our 22 the 16 and on the TC. They have brackets that mount permanently and you can put them on both sides and put the steps where you need them and then put them away when you don't. These ARE sturdy enough to step on...

http://www.starmarinedepot.com/search_results.asp?CatSource=ALL..1&txtsearchParamCat=ALL&subcat=&txtCatName=&iLevel=1&txtsearchParamMan=ALL&txtsearchParamVen=ALL&txtsearch

That's a great looking wheel and spinner but VERY pricey!! Shocked

Charlie