Considering an E36H

I am considering the purchase of an E36H. It needs some work. I would like to know the availablity of parts. I beleive it needs a rudder bearing because there is considerable resisitence on the helm ( I haven't test sailed the boat yet). Does any one have an idea the cost of this bearing?
Also the boat has water damage on the wood surrounding the portlights. Has anyone repaired this? How extensive and expensive is the job?

I would doubt a bad rudder bearing would cause the rudder shaft to bind. It would actually make is easier to turn. A bent rudder shaft or problems with the steering quadrant/gears/cables would make it bind. Make the the wheel lock is released. Make sure you haul the boat and have a complete survey.

Replacing the wood around the portlights is not that big a job. Although you can assume it to be twice as extensive as what you see on the surface. I replaced much of the plywood substrate and veneer around my portlights during my interior refinish project. See the link below:

http://www.treilley.myphotoalbum.com/view_album.php?set_albumName=album26

Rudder bearings

The original bearings were a simple delrin type insert, but any yard can set you up with new bearings of equal or much better quality. Rudder bearings have come a LONG way since this boat was put together-so you can really improve things!

The good news is with boats you rarely need to worry about OEM parts (except maybe windows/ports).

This is a great boat, get a good deal and have a ball!

S

If it is similar to my E33H, which I would suspect is the case, I may have some good news. Mine was overly stiff in steering, as you described. I removed the plate from the top of the rudder post (atop the transom, where the emergency tiller fits) and oiled liberally with 3-in-1 oil. Climb down below & grease the rudder post at the zerc fitting. Use marine grade trailer wheel bearing grease. While you are down there, check the steering cable to ensure there is no binding. Have someone turn the helm stop to stop while you watch from below. Oil the sheaves. Finally, take the compass off of the binnacle and oil the steering chain, again while turning the wheel stop to stop.

I took these steps & it made a world of difference in the ease of turning my helm.