Why is there soo much play in steering..'03 Glastron?

[prc03sx195]

This is a 2003 SX-195 (60 hrs) with Teleflex rack power steering (one cable from rack to cylinder) with 14" wheel. I/O 4.3L Mercruiser. With the boat turned off there is a bout the same amount of play in the steering wheel than there is with it running. With someone moving the wheel and me watching the outdrive the play seems to be right in the rack, nothing moves while the steering wheel is moved between the play spots.
I am getting about 3-4 " of movement either side of center. Is this normal? It makes for controlling the boat much more difficult. I looked in the back by the power cylinder and the cable is in tight. What else can I do? Does the rack get replaced by itself or does the cable come as an assembly? Thanks

paul

 

[mb2005]

Re: Why is there soo much play in steering..'03 Glastron?

I have the same issue with mine and I have a 2005 185. Dealer says that the "new" improved mechanism needs to be replaced.... $1000.

I have fewer hours on my boat that you do. This is really annoying.

 

[Don S]

Re: Why is there soo much play in steering..'03 Glastron?

Have you checked to see where all of this play is coming from? Is it the cable, the pins holding the cable, the helm unit, the gimbal ring and pin? Have someone work the play while you look at all the places that have moving parts.