wheel or pedestal

Hello - New Ericson 27 owner, hoping to refinish the steering wheel, but can't get it off. Anyone have any suggestions? Was able to remove washer, nut, and tension bolt. It has a key, so not sure if the key has to be removed or the wheel will slide off, with some force and anti-corrosion spray...

The E27 I recently bought had the helm removed ..... any ideas on where to find a replacement? Does the 27 have a unique helm or are there others that will work? Is the "Cruising Edition" a little rare? :confused: