1966 Crestliner with same year Johnson 80HP. I noticed that the motor turns quite a bit more when steering right, than left (3 turns full rt, 2 turns full left). Is this by design, or do I need to adjust the linkage?
I had the same problem with a '72. Mine kept getting worse until it would barely turn left at all. It had no adjustment on it. I finally solved it by replacing the steering with a new kit.
Howdy, PVisser.<br /><br />If there is no binding in your steering I think the cable is incorrectly installed in the helm by a few inches.<br /><br />Disconnect the drag link that runs from the engine to the steering rod end. Move your steering wheel to the exact center of its travel and compare the location of the connector and the drag link with the engine dead center. Any difference is an error.<br /><br />If that is the case you can reinstall the cable to try to get a "fit" when both the wheel and engine are centered.<br /><br />Another possibility is a wrong length drag link. With the cable correctly installed, if there is still no fit you may be able to get a different length link.<br /><br />Let us know what you find.<br /><br />Good luck.
Well I noticed on the steering link by the motor there is lots of exposed threads available for the adjustment I need. I just thought that maybe boats were supposed to turn sharper one way than the other... I shall see if I can get those old nuts to move..<br /><br />Thanks
Paul, like a car, a boat should be able to turn left(port) just as much to right (starboard). Sounds like a bit of adjustment is in order. With trial and error you'll figure it out. You may have some old grease that has dried up hampering the ability to turn in one direction(blockage)Best of luck. PDS
check out the outboard fitment to the transom first, some are fitted slightly off centre to counter the direction of the prop, in which case you will have more turn to one side than the other, to counter this add more power in the turn on the short side to bring the stern around faster-its easy with practice<br /><br />i am happy when giving a large wake!
