Custom Helm Box - 2003 26M

[Agoodday]

Question - I have a new to me ‘03 26M and the past few months I have been getting her in sailing shape (at least to my standards)

I have the original Helm Box and I did replace the steering cable with the upgraded BWY one. Also replaced the Throttle Control and went to a 24” Wheel - all making a huge difference. But I want to do more - maybe a flush mounted Compass, a MFD and just bring it into a more modern state. The Fiberglass is not in the best shape, a previous owner thought it was smart to paint it with some sort an oil based paint that has not aged well.

I searched the forum and internet to look for replacements or some sort of idea and with the help of ChatGPT (yeah I am a techie) have come up with a DIY design to be machined out of white HDPE that gives me all my extras, brings the helm box modern and if I build it right should last a very long time.

I guess my post/ask is has anyone else gone the built vs. buy route with the Helm Box. Any tips or tricks? Pics? Do you think if I nailed the design and it was plug and play would others be interested?

I am loving the boat. Coming from 25 years on Catalina’s I do miss some of the ‘sailboat’ only features but my grandkids love the motor. I worked with Precision Sails who I have been buying sails from for years to design a custom square top main and I am swapping down to a 135 Genoa based on square top main move. Can’t wait to get the new sails - hopefully in time for the fall sailing season here in Texas.

Maybe at some point I will post a log of all my mods the past two months - besides the sails the next big one is getting faux teak looking SeaDek installed on the deck, cockpit and cabin floor.

Fair Winds!

s/v A Good Day based in Fort Worth TX

[Russ]

First, welcome to the forum. New member buys the pizza.

How do you find the 24" wheel? Is it hard to get around? I find the helm is close and hard to get around with the stock wheel.

When you say "Helm box" I assume you mean the Pedestal.
I assume you have browsed the mods section. https://macgregorsailors.com/mods/

The early 26Ms had a "box" mounted on a pole. I assume this is what you have. Many have mounted plates on top to mount more devices.
(below)


Can you post a pic of what you have and what you are proposing?

The later 26m had a "toothbrush" pedestal.


I'm not sure if you can recreate this configuration with other materials.

Here is a mod of that style that looks cool. (autopilot "donut" included) I think it's a larger wheel as well.



I've seen people do amazing stuff with MFD. I question if it's stronger than the factory fiberglass "box".

Would love to hear your ideas.