stuck extendable tiller

I have an extendable tiller that typically requires a quarter or half turn to release and tighten. On the last sail last summer, we couldn't release or loosen it for adjustment. It is an aluminum two piece tiller - I assume a stock Hobie item. Any suggestions on how to loosen it? It can rotate a quarter turn or so, but doesn't loosen.

If it is al, how old is it? salt water or fresh? average extention and insertion per sail? JK It sounds like it corroded and the jam nut froze to the outer sleeve. One fix would be to twist the handle, as if to extend the tiller then tap it with a hammer ,lightly. if that doesn't work shoot some break free down the tube and try it tomarrow. the worst thing is it wont budge and you will have to sprin for a new carbon hot stick Because you know you can't sail if the tiller won't extend

After last season mine did the same, I got it to work but it was sticky so I broke down and just bought a new one.

Flush with fresh water. Maybe soak in a tub or pool then flush by extending and retracting while under the water's surface, it will flush the mechanism. Corrosion my have damaged the function though.

That is how you clear a Hotstick as well.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)