Hard Steering

[RichJabl]

I have a 1989 Pro Line with a 90 hp Johnson. The steering is hard to turn. I disconnected the steering cable at the motor and it moves ok. I greesed the engine pivot, but the engine is still stiff to move side to side. Any help is appreaciated.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[OBJ]

Re: Hard Steering

Hello Rich and welcome aboard iboats.<br /><br />What I would suggest you to do is remove the steering cable from the engine and see if the steering is easier. If it is, clean the tilt tube out with a round wire brush and get all the gunk and rust out of it. Clean the steering cable ram also. Coat with grease before reassembling.<br /><br />If the steering is still stiff after removing from the steering tube, replace the steering cable. Probably rusting up inside and will only get worse.<br /><br />Please note....sometimes it's necessary to lift the engine from the transom to remove the steering cable from the tilt tube.<br /><br />Post if you have any questions.

 

[angus63]

Re: Hard Steering

Are you sure you greased the vertical pivot and not the horizontal pivot. The zirc fittings on the tilt tube do not aid steering lube. Look in the area around and under the trailer support bracket for another zirc that greases the steering pivot. Pump until new grease exits the top. Manually work the motor left and right until it frees up.<br />Good luck

 

[RichJabl]

Re: Hard Steering

I greased the vertical zirc untill grease came out the bottom pivot. No grease will come out the top pivot.

 

[angus63]

Re: Hard Steering

Usually when both top and bottom have old hardened grease, it will pop out one end and the other will remain plugged. Tough to get to to clean it out. Would just pump until new grease is seen and then work the motor left and right to the stops a few (hundred) times or until free.<br />Good Luck

 

[RichJabl]

Re: Hard Steering

Thanks, I will keep at it.