helm seat

[jim k]

i am having trouble getting the helm seat on my 38 da to move up and down. all other directions work fine, but the vertical direction doesn't work. i tried using silicone spray to free it, but that didn't help. do these freeze up? any ideas or suggestions on how to get it operational again? thanks, jim k

 

[boatmailster]

I think that there is assisting pneumatic piston inside. Valve may be bad or lost it pressure.

 

[jpk33]

Jim - does the handle pull out/push in or is it seized? Try spraying the handle (actuator) first and work it in/out. Then try lifting the seat/pushing it down with the handle out. If it functions by manual operation, I am guessing boatmailster may have pegged it. Good luck! - Jeff

 

[jim k]

thanks all. yes, the handle moves fine, but even when i hold the handle up and try to move the seat manually it will not budge. i have sprayed silcone on everything under the seat and it still does not move. seems to bef rozen in place. does the seat need to come out to get at the piston? any suggestions on next steps or how to go about the repair? is this a DIY or does it require a prof? how complicated/expensive do you estimate? any other suggestions would be appreciated. again, many thanks. jim

 

[boatmailster]

if this is garelick brand of seat stand I would contact manufacturer
there are some parts which are pressed-in and can't be removed without destroying them

 

[Lazy Daze]

If the problem is that it is seized, you might want to try a penetrating liquid such as PB Blaster. Silicone is great for lubricating, but is not designed for penetrating. This still may not solve your problem, but a can of PB is cheap and is always good to have around, anyway.

 

[jpk33]

+1 to Lazy Daze on the penetrating oil. Is the boat used in salt (spray and such can bind things up pretty quickly). The hardware is durable and should withstand the elements but it sounds like there is something "gumming" up the piston operation. As boatmailster said chech with the part manufacturer and see what they say. Sea Ray should tell you who made it if there are no identifying marks.

 

[boatmailster]

If the problem is that it is seized, you might want to try a penetrating liquid such as PB Blaster. Silicone is great for lubricating, but is not designed for penetrating. This still may not solve your problem, but a can of PB is cheap and is always good to have around, anyway.

just be careful with PB Blaster, it can permanently stain gelcoat and other plastics!!!