Do I need to replace steering hose?

[StingrayMike]

2015 Stingray with F250 Yamaha, uflex manual steering (no hyd pump)

I noticed that the hose that connects to the right fitting ( if looking at it from the from) is crimped over alittle bit. Should I replace it? I do not have any issues steering,so I believe the integrity of the cable is good and not crushed down any.
Attached are a few pics of what I am seeing. I think that the rubber jacket is just pushed up abit causing it to look like it got pinched.
Also that fitting, if it is positioned parallel to the ram is loose and will cause some minor pinching. If I twist it down, it tightens up and the cable has more room. Is it ok for the fitting to be facing up? Isnt that for bleeding and filling the system. SO in theory, if I bleed it of air, then any water would get pushed out?? Or should I get a rubber boot for both just to be safe?

Thanks


fitting parallel to ram at full turn


fitting point up at full turn

close up of fitting parallel to ram at full turn
fitting pointing up at full turn

whole steering assembly at full turn

 

[GA_Boater]

The hoses don't move while steering the boat, so no wear on the hose. I think it's just the outer sheath is kinked.

Adjust the hose so it's a straight as you can get it. Cut the zip tie and rotating the fitting so it points down will reduce the strain. The motor well is wider toward the top of the splashwell.

 

[StingrayMike]

That is true, they don't move...…
great idea about rotating it to point down

thanks

 

[GA_Boater]

And cut the zip tie. It's added strain, so add one further back where the two hoses come together naturally.

 

[StingrayMike]

Gotcha, will do