1988 Bayliner Capri rack & pinion steering problem

[carlasdaddy]

I recently bought a 1988 Bayliner Capri as a "fixer upper". My problem is that the rack & pinion steering is tight and hard to turn. It is also very squeaky while turning. Is this something I can fix or should I take it to a dealer. This is my first boat, so any help is appreciated.

 

[GA_Boater]

Is this an IO or OB? You can get another complete steering system inexpensively and change it out yourself. If you get stuck, that's what we're here for.

 

[carlasdaddy]

It's a 2.3L i/o cobra sterndrive

 

[Speak]

I recently bought a 1988 Bayliner Capri as a "fixer upper". My problem is that the rack & pinion steering is tight and hard to turn. It is also very squeaky while turning. Is this something I can fix or should I take it to a dealer. This is my first boat, so any help is appreciated.

The manual steering on these boats can be brutal while under way. Stiff is normal. Wish mine was power steering I have the same boat