Replacing Steering chain & cables (Ritchie)

[Northeaster]

Hi Folks,

I need to replace the steering chain, and attached swaged-wires, on my 30 year old Ritchie pedestal. Boat is a 1978 Seafarer 30. I checked Ritchie's website, but it looks like they only sell / service compasses now.
I have the old one out, so I can take it somewhere to have it replaced.

Is this something a good rigging shop could replace?
Has anyone replaced their's, and have a source?

Thanks!

[sailingdog]

Can you post a photo of what you need fixed??? I'd imagine if the chain is in good shape, and the wire is what needs replacing, a good rigging shop should be able to accommodate that...if the chain itself is shot, then that's a different story.

[Maine Sail]

My guess is that the chain is fine and can be reconditioned with a soak in parts cleaner and a parafin bath (an old bike chain trick). The cables can easily be replaced as Dog said by any competent rigging shop.

You most likely have either a Whitlock, Yacht Specialties (out of business) or an Edson pedestal. I've been around boats for a while and don't ever recall hearing that Ritchie made pedestals. They make compasses to fit most brands of pedestals but not pedestals to my recollection.

Send us a photo, and try to include the brake handle in it, and we should be able to identify it. Unless it's one of those odd Euro pedestals which I highly doubt.

[Northeaster]

Thanks for the replies!
Actually, the chain needs replacing as well (or at least 1 link), as one link was broken on 1 side. It was only a matter of time before the other side let go. I decided to replace the wires, as I noticed meathooks. Then, when I removed the chain, to get at the wire ends, I noticed the broken link!!
I would like to replace the whole chain, as it is somehwhat suspect now!

I can take a picture of the chain assembly next week. I do have a couple pics of the pedestal, but I'll have to review the picture posting process first!!

I had thought that Ritchie did make the pedestal, as well. It is probably an Edson, but I don't have a steering brake - just a rubber plug, where that "option" would have went!!

[Northeaster]

Halekai - a Seafarer 37 owner (mine is a Seafarer 30) has informed me that his pedestal was made by Yacht Specialites, and that apparently Edson parts normally fit, as apparantly it was an Edson knock -off!
I will get some info on Edson parts, and if possible, take my chain / cables in to compare with replacement parts.
I am not sure how many varities / sizes of chain / wire Edson would have on pedestals fitting small to large sailboats, so hopefully Edson can fill me in!~