Bulkhead replacement.
Bill, Given that you describe the issue as delimitation, that suggests that indeed, the problem is in the area accessed through the aft seat hatch and not the teak wheel box that should be solid wood as, my notes indicate you also have. Actual replacement of those small bulkheads should be pretty straightforward. Get in there with some sort of cutting tool like a Dremel or the like and go at the tabbing around all sides of each one. Try to save the shape of them as best you can to use as templates for replacement ones you will make. The only issue you'll face is how to get the spliced eyes of the steering cables through the holes in these small bulkheads. Work that out as best as you can and come up with a larger replacement. I have actually seen a PVC plumbing part at my local hardware store that fits the bill but have never explored it further. I'm off to take care of some Saturday errands so I'll swing by there and buy one of them to have on hand and while I'm at it, find out what they're called. A fellow E31 owner in Shannon, Ireland showed me a similar piece he had installed for a similar reason on a visit Marilyn and I took to see their boat so I know it'll work. On another topic, will you email me back channel at
glynjudson@roadrunner.com to talk a bit more about your boat and where she's located, etc? With that information in hand, I'll update my E31 spread sheet to reflect more accurate and current info. Thanks and stand by for the PVC part details, Glyn Judson, E31 hull #55 Marina del Rey CA