Force 125 Slack in Steering

[gregmsr]

I searched but not found any posts on this problem that can help me. I have the 125 hp on a 89 Capri. I've got slack getting worse in the steering. The motor will rock side to side slightly while under way causing this "bumping" in the steering wheel. I looked at everything associated with the steering and cannot visually see any problems. But, there is 1.5 to 2" slack in the steering wheel.
Is the cable getting worn out or is there some adjustment under the dash? Is something coming loose? Everything looks fine on the motor end, the problem is at the steering wheel end.
Any help appreciated on where to look.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: Force 125 Slack in Steering

I believe you have rack and pinion steering on that boat.If there is that much play then you are looking at a cable replacement.
Take the steering apart and check the parts for wear. They usually sieze up before wearing out.Jerry

 

[gregmsr]

Re: Force 125 Slack in Steering

Not sure I fully understand rack and pinion set up. Under the dash there is a long, grey bar the cable comes into on one side. The shaft from the wheel comes into a small box about mid-way the grey bar. So, I remove the four bolts and examine the insides for wear. I'll tear into it and see what I find.
Any other direction and input would be a great help, from anyone. Thanks.

 

[gregmsr]

Re: Force 125 Slack in Steering, the fun begins

Re: Force 125 Slack in Steering, the fun begins

Ok, I've torn into this project and man what a SOB! Got the rack loose, cable un-tied along the gunwhale. Then, can't get the rod fully removed from the tube at the motor. The angle of the tube does not align with the hole where all the cables comes through at the transom. Crap, s--t!!! Looks like I will have to unbolt the motor/transom brackets to be able to manuver the rod out. Then the problem getting the rod (with the big nut) through the hole with all the other wires/cables.
Anyone have any suggestions to make this go a little smoother?
Seems I read somewhere here that the motor will have to be unbolted to install a new steering cable on this boat.

I may cut a new hole through the side to install the new cable through! Crap.