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Maybe I can add something here since I have the same "winged" center console, all original, on my 1975 Outrage 19. See this photo, and many others in the same Album:

http://smg.photobucket.com/user/lgolt...4148803321

Besides the fact that I have raised this console 6", the only thing not original are the replacement 3/8" solid teak instrument panels, and the engine control base (Boat originally had a Morse twin engine control). The round gauge between the instrument panels, with on-off switch underneath, was only furnished on Outrage models, for the built-in fuel tank gauge.

You can see that the raised pad on the console top is for the optional Ritchie Navigator compass, recessed version. Mine is still original, and I would recommend you buy this same compass. They are about $225 and well worth it. They also make a blue card "Super Sport" version for more card stability and dampening.

I would not change out the Big T steering. It is a really heavy duty helm, and you can buy a brand new cable for it, with a QC connector adaptor. That is what I did, and mine steers a 150 Merc with no problem at all. My chrome bezel did not need replacing, but they are readily available from Teleflex
new. Per Mercury, to elminate prop feedback at the wheel, simply trim the engine to the neutral steering position, which is also the most efficient running angle anyway. As with any cable steering system, be sure to use a Steersman grease zerk nut on the port side of the tilt tube.

If you do want to change out the Big T, go with BayStar hydraulic. This has a very tall helm which will give you the steering wheel clarance needed. In either case, I would never change the centerline location of the wheel. Leave it where Whaler placed it.

My console also came with the interior partitioning, one of the dumber things I have ever seen Whaler do. I have no idea what they were thinking! I removed it, and with no batteries or oil tanks in it, it gives me huge storage space.

I raised this console, and also the 1977-1982 non-winged version in my 1979 Montauk 6", because on both of these consoles, the wheel and engine control are ridiculously low, especially for a tall person like me. It sounds extreme, but it is not, and it increases the control and operating comfort of the boats 10 fold. I HIGHLY recommend doing it. But it does require raising the RPS the same distance or you'll feel like you are sitting on the floor!