Re: Stiff steering - 90hp Johnson
First find out if it is the motor or the steering that is stiff. Disconnect the cable link from the motor. The motor should then swing back and forth with ease. If not, there is your problem.
However, the usual cause is the cable where it goes through the tilt tube. It must be removed and the rust cleaned out of the tube and relubricated with some good waterproof marine grease. This is a regular preventative maintenance item. Ignore it long enough and you won't even be able to get it out without destroying it.
OK, I know. On many boats you can't get the cable out without removing the motor from the boat. So be it. It still has to be done.
