inboard stiff steering

[sokkerglass]

I have a 91 ski brendella 351 ford. I have access to all of the steering mechanisms because I'm redoing the deck. The steering is tight. Tight enough to use 2 hands when doing a 180. I want it to be easy. What can I do. ? Do I have to replace the cable? Can it be lubricated?<br />Help please. <br />Thanks <br />BILL BOYD

 

[Fishermark]

Re: inboard stiff steering

Is this a new boat for you? In other words, is the stiffness something new or has it been that way for awhile? Has it been sitting up for awhile? When I bought my boat, the cable was stuck back where it goes through a tube at the transom. A little help with the "red wrench" (torch) loosened it up so I was able to remove it and lubricate it. Works fine now.

 

[salty87]

Re: inboard stiff steering

if that's the original cable, i'd replace it. they don't last forever and they're pretty easy to swap out. afterward, you'll be able to do that 180 with 1 finger.

 

[sokkerglass]

Re: inboard stiff steering

It's a new boat for me. Looks like the original cable. I'm trying to "draw the line" for spending more money. I was lied to bad on the boat. I'd like to lube it if I could. I will replace it if I HAVE TO. Like I said It will never get any easier to do than now. How much is it to replace and where would I get one. Where can it be lubed?. I see the lube gel for sale at Overton's. thanks for the help

 

[Bondo]

Re: inboard stiff steering

These systems are Not designed to be Servicable.....<br /><br />You can Replace the Whole Thing(helm,+ cable) for about $150.00, Or Less..........<br />Tele-Flex is about the only Show in Town these days.......<br />They can be found at about Any Marine Chandlery....<br />Probably right here at iboats......

 

[Fishermark]

Re: inboard stiff steering

At least see where the stiffness or binding is. If you can disconnect the steering cable at the transom end, do so and see how difficult the steering wheel is to turn. If it is still stiff, you will need to replace the cable. (Believe me, I tried salvaging a stiff cable on a previous boat years ago. I finally gave up and did what Bondo recommends - new helm and cable). If it moves freely then you know the stiffness is somewhere else.<br /><br />On the boat I have now, (with an Alpha 1), the transom assembly was so stiff when I bought it that it took all my effort just to move the outdrive back and forth (with no cable attached). I ended up having to heat up the lower bushing area and spray it with generous ammounts of penetrating oil. But it works great now.

 

[sokkerglass]

Re: inboard stiff steering

Thanks guys. I'll get on it tonight. I like the idea of disconnecting it to see if it is for sure the cable.<br />Thanks again.<br />BILL BOYD