How to replace rudder bushings on Cal 9.2

[A-dock]

If the wind is above 12 knots, the tiller gets harder to move -- increasingly so over the past few years. It seems something more than weather helm is going on. The zerk fittings at top and bottom of the tube for the rudder post were greased with no effect. I don't think a grounding or bent rudder post is involved, so I suspect bearings/bushings. I'm not familiar with the assembly of the post/tube and have no experience dropping a rudder, but it's got to be done.
Does the rudder have bearings or bushings (bronze/delrin)? Is this a straightforward parts replacement or is custom machining likely?
Can the rudder be dropped/repaired/re-installed at the boat ramp to avoid a haul out? (The top of the 9.2 rudder is above the water line and the shallow water is getting warmer already, so yes, I could drop the rudder...but there's surely pro-con to this that I need to weigh.)
Many thanks!

Ben

[Mikie]

I broached rounding Point Conception with a chute up....OUCH! To drop the rudder in my slip I placed a plumber's test balloon, with string attached, in the rudder tube. Worked like a champ.

[krivanj]

My rudder post broke off right where it came out of the hull. New post went right up the tube from the bottom. My rudder floated up-side down so had to hold it and feed the post into the tube.
No bearings, just bushings. Lots of slop.