Help! Seized steering rod. telefex system

[Trum008]

Hey all, just did a total tune up of my engine and it took about 3 weeks. In that time my normally good (but stiff) steering seized on me. It seems that the steering rod is stuck in the steering tube. it has happened before but with a little tugging on the steering wheel came undone and steered okay after that. I've been applying anti-corrosion grease to the steering rod. I know i should have used a gun and put some in the tube but now am worried.
1. If i use a grease gun now can i get it unseized?
2. My steering cable is still intact but.........the outside layer (the lines of cable) came unattached from the helm gear piece (looks like some hooks and straight line protruding). Now it all moves together instead of the cable moving inside the outer part.
3. How do I get the steering rod unseized and....my friend had an idea to weld the pieces of protruding steel to the helm part for an inexpensive fix. is this a good idea if i can get the steering rod unseized?
Any help is greatly appreciated. I can upload some pictures as well if needed. thanks

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Help! Seized steering rod. telefex system

No, a grease gun will not loosen it. You must drive it out with a hammer--if it moves at all. If you can't hammer it out, then you must remove the steering tube and buy a new cable and tube. This involves breaking the inner nut or sawing

If the cable came free at the helm, the cable is now bad. You need to buy another one--most times it is better to just buy a complete system. Photos would help to be sure though

If you do drive the old cable out of the steering tube, then take a long wire brush and chuck it in a drill. brush the rust and corrosion out of the steering tube and re-grease it before installing the new cable.

Be aware that on many hulls, there is not enough room and the engine may need to be unbolted and moved over in order to get the cable end out. This is one of those jobs that can be relatively easy or hell on wheels.