I know of at least two used-marine-parts stores in the NW with complete Y.S. pedistal steerers sitting on the floor, price negotiable... Many older boats are having new steering systems installed, so there are quite a few of these going in and out of the used market. Some will be identified as "Merriman" as well as Yacht Specialties, FWIW.
These steerers became very common on a variety of sailboats in the 70's and 80's, when builders found that new sailers wanted steering wheels, just like their cars.
You should check around the NE for another Y.S. unit to cannibalize.
(Sort of like... that scene in the Good, Bad , and the Ugly, wherein Tuco the bandit assembles a good revolver from parts of several others... and then... robs the gun shop owner! Well, maybe not too much like that scene....)
Or, if you get a decent check from your rich great aunt on your birthday, install a new drag link steering system -- and catch up to modern times with a vengence!
Best of luck,
Loren in PDX
(same steering system on my '88 Olson)
