Spring loaded bushing on steering linkage

[pman7]

My old Merc manual shows pictures of the steering connection when using a tilt tube setup. In the pictures there is a spring loaded bushing on the connection where the steering rod (that attaches to the end of the steering cable) connects to the steering arm on the motor. I guess this spring loaded bushing is suppose to allow extra vertical play in the connection while still holding the side to side steering motion stable.

Is this spring loaded bushing necessary? If the height allignment from the end of the steering cable over to the steering arm is correctly set up with washers to alleviate any bind, wouldn't the system work just as well?

Does anybody here have this spring bushing on their system? It almost appears like overkill to me.

If this spring bushing is necessary, where can I find one?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Spring loaded bushing on steering linkage

they were a quick disconnect, and have been done away with years ago. you can use a bolt washers, and a locking nylon nut.

 

[F_R]

Re: Spring loaded bushing on steering linkage

Quick disconnects had a very nasty habit of coming disconnected due to the spring rusting or breaking. Not nice when you are heading towart the bridge pilings.

 

[pman7]

Re: Spring loaded bushing on steering linkage

Thanks to both of you. That's interesting about the defect. I'm definitely glad I asked.

I'm from a town of about 50K. It wasn't easy to find the 3/8 x 24 locking nut. It took about 6 phone calls and found it in an old time hardware store that specializes in plumbing.