stiff steering under power problem

[cubbug]

Here's one I just can't figure out. I'm sure hoping somebody has an idea. O.K. I have a 20 Bayrunner Baja with an 00 Yamaha 80 4 stroke O/B I just bought this boat last fall. The problem is that when the boat is not in gear, the steering takes normal pressure to turn the motor from side to side. No binding at all. Smooth from one side to the other. When it is in gear and you're under way, It nearly takes both hands to turn the steering wheel! I have pulled it into my garage, but doggone it! I can't find what is putting pressure on the motor that would make it difficult to turn while under way. Does anybody have any ideas!!?? This really is a puzzler. Thanks to all, Dave

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: stiff steering under power problem

I had exactly the same issue with a 150Hp 4-st Yamaha. New boat. I hung the motor and took it for a test. Under power, it was as hard to steer as you refer. At slow speeds and out of water it was fine. The customer picked it up anyhow and hasn't brought it back. Maybe the problem cleared-up, but he was a pretty big guy and it might not be a big deal to him. The only thing I can think of is the Non-feedback steering helm has a problem. I don't think it's the motor. Does yours have Teleflex NFB steering?

 

[tengals123]

Re: stiff steering under power problem

do you have a hydrofoil???

 

[DJ]

Re: stiff steering under power problem

Hard to steer in both directions or just one?<br /><br />If just one, adjust the trim tab (shark fin looking thing hanging down just above and behind prop).<br /><br />Turn the trailing edge of the trim tab (fin) in the direction of the pull. If the boat wants to go right, turn the trailing edge to the right. Visa versa.

 

[cubbug]

Re: stiff steering under power problem

Hi. It's hard to steer in both directions. If I'm sitting there idling, the motor turns side to side just as it should, very smooth - no binding. As soon as You put the motor in gear and get under way, it takes quite a lot of effort to turn the steering wheel. No, it does not have a Hydrofoil, just a stock 80 h.p. Yamaha. Didn't want to get my excercise that way!!

 

[JRJ]

Re: stiff steering under power problem

I have Teleflex NFB on my 115 Johnson 4-stroke and it steers very easy power on or off. I'm looking at a new boat, and with a Yamaha 150 4-stroke, you have to order power steering as part of the package.

 

[DJ]

Re: stiff steering under power problem

cubbug,<br /><br />Where is the anti cavitation plate (plate above prop) in relation to the bottom of the boat?

 

[jim dozier]

Re: stiff steering under power problem

check your trim, some engines are sensitive to trim. If you're trimmed down (lower unit tucked in close to the transom) it may steer harder. Try trimming up and see if it improves.

 

[cubbug]

Re: stiff steering under power problem

I don't believe I have the NFB steering on my boat. Could anyone recommend a good one that is easily installed? Thank you !!

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: stiff steering under power problem

Is it possible that the tilt tube may be worn ? When throttle is applied the torque of the motor may be binding the steering rod in the tilt tube. I might be way off base but it is a thought.