Steering problem

[Dave 2002]

I have a 1998 Bayliner trophy out board with rack and pinion steering, it was frozen so I tapped the rod out cleaned the tube and rod and then greased it up. I put it all back together and the rod will extend far enough but it will not retract enough buy about two inches. This is a new boat to me and I had never turned the wheel to see if it was like this before or not. Is there an adjustment or could the cable be streched? Any ideas.

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Steering problem

Only thing I can think of is that the cable to rack interface wasn't returned to it's original position. Since the rack can only move a limited distance lock to lock, via turning the wheel, if it was connected to the cable in the wrong place it could cause your problem. I have never pulled one apart to see how the connection is made. I am just applying a hunch to the problem based on logic.....I think. Grin.

Mark

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Steering problem

How close to the tilt tube does the steering rod get? A shorter motor steering link can help make that tighter left turn.

 

[Dave 2002]

Re: Steering problem

Its about two inches from the tube. I think I going to replace the cable and see how that works

 

[Dave 2002]

Re: Steering problem

Well I replaced the cable and it is working great. A couple of tips for those having a problem like this first the lenght of the steering cable is stamped on the cable caseing itself repeatedly ever foot or so. the second is that the rod at the end that sides through the tube, there is a smaller steel rod that slides inside of it. That is where my problem was, the smaller rod was stuck inside of the bigger rod and that is why it would not retract all the way. I hope this makes sence to who ever is reading this.

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Steering problem

Well I replaced the cable and it is working great. A couple of tips for those having a problem like this first the lenght of the steering cable is stamped on the cable caseing itself repeatedly ever foot or so. the second is that the rod at the end that sides through the tube, there is a smaller steel rod that slides inside of it. That is where my problem was, the smaller rod was stuck inside of the bigger rod and that is why it would not retract all the way. I hope this makes sence to who ever is reading this.

If your cable had a kink in it it could explain the problem. Seems that once the center conductor kinks, you can never get it straightened out and it will bind.

Glad you got "r" fixed.

Mark