Steering assembly question

[NYBen]

Hey guys, new to the group. I have a 1989 Alumacraft Lunker DLX with a 25hp Yamaha. It has always steered a bit hard, but today I went to turn the wheel and heard a pop just behind the steering wheel. The wheel just spins freely now, without turning the motor. I looked under the console and see that I have a Teleflex SH5023 assembly. Can someone give me some info on replacing this. Are the existing cables likely still good? Can this outdated model be updated with a newer model using the same cables (assuming they are still good)? I can order the unit online for about $125, but would like to update it if possible without spending a bunch of $$. Thanks in advance.

Also, I am no boat mechanic by any means, but at quick glance this looks pretty straight forward. If it isn't let me know and I'll schedule an apointment at the marina.

Ben

 

[gsyfishy]

Re: Steering assembly question

Either the cable is freezing up in the steering sleeve, and will need replacing, or the motor bracket is in need of lubrication. If it is the motor, lube it up and work it back and forth until it is moving freely. Have you tried taking the screws off the steering assembly and putting the cable back in? The other thing to check, is have someone manualy turn the motor from side to side and see if the cable is moving freely.

 

[zzzzz]

Re: Steering assembly question

your helm is stripped out...buy a new helm and cable kit

 

[NYBen]

Re: Steering assembly question

Can I get any like sized helm, or do I need to keep it exactly the same model? Especially if I'm buying a new "kit" instead of just the helm unit, I don't have to worry about the cables matching up with the new helm...