What is this Tube

[76SeaRay]

I picked up a used rack and pinion steering cable and steering column/shaft to replace my OMC steering to go to Mercruiser. Can anyone tell me what this plastic tube is used for on the side of the steering shaft?

Thanks.

 

[southkogs]

Isn't that the tension/friction adjustment? Or am I seeing it wrong?

 

[76SeaRay]

Thanks, that's not something that crossed my mind... I will go back and look at it again to see if it is an adjustment. Thanks.

 

[76SeaRay]

Well, I looked at it more closely tonight. No adjustment screw but there are threads inside the tube. Guessing there is a thumb screw missing from the assembly..