Steering Cable Problem

[CindyM]

It appears that my steering cable has become frozen. I am unable to turn the steering wheel at all. When I detach the cable from the motor, I am able to turn the steering wheel. Is there an easy fix for this problem or is the cable easy to replace. I have a 1963 Lonestar 16 ft. boat with a 1988 Johnson 60HP motor. Any feedback would be appreciated. I also am not sure what type of steering cable to purchase. Any suggestions.<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />Cindy

 

[kd6nem]

Re: Steering Cable Problem

Does the wheel steer easily when the cable is disconnected from the motor? Sounds like the cable may not be the problem. With the cable disconnected see if you can push the motor from one side to the other without difficulty. Not too fast, just see if it offers much resistance. If stiff the motor's pivot pin may need a little cleaning and lubrication. http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=29;t=011228 steering

 

[CindyM]

Re: Steering Cable Problem

The motor turns easily with the cable attached. Everything appears to be working good without the cable attached. I am unable to move the rod running inside the steering cable without moving the outer cable also. They are reacting as one cable instead of 2 separate parts. Any thoughts.

 

[quantumleap]

Re: Steering Cable Problem

Probably time for a new cable. You can try to saturate both ends with a penetrating oil and see if it will free up. If it does, then lube it with the proper grease. Good luck.

 

[CindyM]

Re: Steering Cable Problem

Thanks for the info. I am sure it is the cable and I am having it replaced.

 

[kd6nem]

Re: Steering Cable Problem

I was a bit confused from the statements about where the cable was disconnected from. Makes a world of difference which end was disconnected vs what symptoms were present. If the inner cable is indeed stuck inside the sheath then you're quite right the cable is in fact the culprit. <br />Best of luck with it.

 

[Terry H]

Re: Steering Cable Problem

CindyM...you are doing the right thing by changing the cable...just a Thought

 

[bidlimit]

Re: Steering Cable Problem

Try a greasable nut that you can put on the end of the tilt tube of the OB. It will help alleviate this condition in the future. Look in the West Marine catalog near steering parts.