Just got my Mainsheet... Thanks for the timely article!  I pulled my compass off about a month ago and sent it to Ritchie for repair (no diaphram, no oil!), spent last weekend getting those four bolts out to get into the pedestal proper, and spent last Monday on the phone with the folks at Edson ordering the 4 new bolts, a new cable/chain assembly, and the brake maintenance kit.  My path to this point is amazingly similary to yours.  My path to the end, will no doubt be easier because I have your article in my box of parts!

Mike Brown
1992 Catalina 34
Just Limin'
M1.5, M35A engine