Steering Stiff - right turning only

[dtdodd1422]

2004 Bayliner 175BR

Help. Have the above mention boat I just bought. Took it out on the water this wekend and noticed when turning the steering wheel to the right it is really stiff to the point you have to throttle down in order to ease the burden a little. I am talking two hands and pulling or pushing with might. Yet when it turns to the left it is very easy and can do with one hand.

I am thinking the the teleflex backmount steering cable needs to be replaced. Any reason why this would not fix the problem?? Could it be something else?

Thanks in advance for your advice.

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: Steering Stiff - right turning only

You probably need to adjust the trim tab on the engine's lower unit. You'll need to move the rear of the trim tab to the right some, just how much to move it you'll need to determine through trial and error.

 

[dtdodd1422]

Re: Steering Stiff - right turning only

Will give it a try hopefully this weekend. That would be alot easier than replacing steering cable and helm.

Thanks

 

[dtdodd1422]

Re: Steering Stiff - right turning only

Question. I just found my Merc book the previous owner had and it mentions that the trailing edge of the trim tab should be moved in the direction the boat turns the easiest. So if turning left is easy and right is stiff the trim tab should be turned towards the left? This contradicts the previous answer. Which is correct?

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: Steering Stiff - right turning only

Don't beleive everything you read online. Someone could be having a momentary brain fart when they would normally know better :facepalm:. (Yes, the book's correct). It only takes a few seconds to make an adjustment, just move the tab a bit and try it out. If it's not enough move it a little more.

 

[dtdodd1422]

Re: Steering Stiff - right turning only

Book was correct. Works a hole lot better now. Thanks