Steering Lube & Maintenance

[eot]

I recently purchased a 1986 17' Bass Tracker boat that had been setting for a couple of years. Did all the maintenance I could come up with including greasing steering parts. Still, the steering is stiffer than I would like. Boat has Rotary steering. Coming off the rotary box is a clear plastic tube with a cap on it and appears to have the end of the cable inside. Is this the lubricating point for the cable and box and if so, what lubricant do I use? Also, with the exception of when it breaks, how do you know if the entire cable should be replaced? Thanks!

 

[pmueller]

Re: Steering Lube & Maintenance

eot, welcome to the board. I'm not familiar with your particular set-up, I'm sure more knowledgeable folks will add to this, but my manual calls for the following: steering link rod pivot points use light weight oil, steering cable grease fitting use anti-corrosion grease or 2-4-C maring lubricant with teflon, clean hinge tube and lubricate with waterproof grease.

 

[BillBill]

Re: Steering Lube & Maintenance

I think there was an article in one of the boating magazines recently. I will look when I go home and see where it was....

 

[93evinrude]

Re: Steering Lube & Maintenance

If it is a teleflex system which is likely,an option would be to send your questions to them via their website but it sounds as though your cable may be getting old and needing replacement.<br /><br /> http://www.teleflexmorse.com/Marine/default.asp?id=17

 

[BR549]

Re: Steering Lube & Maintenance

Try posting your question with these guys - it's a dedicated Tracker/Nitro owners site and will most likely have someone that has a rig with a similar set up:<br /><br /> http://www.nitroowners.com/nitroowners/

 

[Bondo]

Re: Steering Lube & Maintenance

the "tube" you mention is for the "tag-end" of the cable... it has to go somewhere when you turn the wheel.... When the cable gets "tight", it's telling you it's time for a new one.... you'll find, it's cheaper,+ easier to replace the "whole" system, than just the cable....new cables cost about the same as a complete system... about $100. to $150.