Steering near impossible 97 (18') bayliner with 120 force

[jeffsji]

I have a bayliner that has a steering issue that seems to make me stronger every year and eventually I think I am going to snap something. Should I replace the steering cable or is there something that I can do with the hydraulic system in the back to make it easier? I have scanned the boards but have had no luck finding anything on this. Any ideas/theory?s/solutions would be appreciated.

 

[john from md]

Re: Steering near impossible 97 (18') bayliner with 120 force

Is the helm easy to turn on land vs water? If not, then do the following.

I suggest that you disconnect the steering cable at the engine and determine if your problem is with the cable or with the engine King pin.

If it is hard to turn in the water, you need to give me more info as which direction it is hard to turn.

John

 

[jeffsji]

Re: Steering near impossible 97 (18') bayliner with 120 force

Thanks for the reply. It is about the same on land and in water. Left is harder to turn than right (2X harder). I will try to disco the cable tonight and see if I can move it by hand (currently I cannot budge it by hand).

 

[john from md]

Re: Steering near impossible 97 (18') bayliner with 120 force

You can disconnect it at the right side looking at the engine.

The steering rod housing has a grease fitting. Have you tried pumping grease in it?

John