Ericson 1988 28' Pedestal

[GMaurer]

I recently purchased a 1988 28' (still in dry storage).
It has the original (I think) pedestal - made by Merriman.
There is a large Phillips head nut on the aft centerline of the pedestal shaft.
What is it for?

 

[CatCon101]

Hex Nut

I beleive the hex nut is for an emergency tiller in the event the wheel control would fail. Most Ericsons were equiped with this feature.

Regards / Joe

 

[Frank Langer]

On my 30+, I have found that this nut tends to loosen with use of the steering wheel. I have been hesitant to overtighten it, so I just snug it up from time to time. Anyone else experience this? Any better solution?
Frank.