Steering Arm Extension ??

[dannybee]

First, I am a boating novice, not well versed in all the proper terminology and probably have many erroneous misconceptions. I recently purchased a 1960 Ouachita bass boat with a 1972 Johnson 65hp (65ESL72). Steering is fine as configured however, the OB cannot be raised and the lock engaged because the bottom of the steering knuckle hits the transom. Not only does this create obvious problems trailered but I have concerns should something (stump) be hit while underway - slamming the steering knuckle/arm into the transom. My questions are: Can an extension be added to the steering arm (appears would be simple "fix") effectively moving the "knuckle" out and away from the transom. Would it be "safe"? Are there commercially available "extensions" available, thus avoiding my "engineering" hiccups? Has any fellow boaters encountered this and if so, what was your solution?

Any help/insight greatly appreciated.

dannyb

I'll post a pic if I can figure out how to do so !!

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Steering Arm Extension ??

no extention. but it looks like some one has installed a tilt tube, hard to tell. if so the cable should go thru the tilt tube, and the a connecting arm from cable to motor.

another solution is to use a universal bracket, for the tilt tube and an connecting arm.

 

[dannybee]

Re: Steering Arm Extension ??

Hmmm.. I see what your talking about.. I had noticed the area you say is a tilt-tube, but obviously, in my ignorance, didnt know what it was !! I'll not CONFIRM my stupidity by telling what I THOUGHT it was for !!. I'll give it a look tomorrow. Very well could be the solution to my problem, depending upon, once routed through the tilt-tube, the connection is made to the arm.

Much thanks for your insight and taking the time to respond.

dannyb