1998 Force 120 (1998 Bayliner) Stiff Steering when in water

bingbong

Cadet
Joined
Mar 28, 2012
Messages
21
I took out the boat last weekend, and I encountered an issue with the steering. When turning to the right, the steering wheel spins freely on its own, without touching it. On the other hand, turning left takes A LOT of effort (my wife can't even turn it). This only happens when it is in gear and driving around. When in the garage or in neutral, it seems to be very smooth. Any ideas on how to troubleshoot?

Thanks in advance
 

foodfisher

Captain
Joined
Feb 18, 2009
Messages
3,756
Re: 1998 Force 120 (1998 Bayliner) Stiff Steering when in water

Can't remember the correct name of the thing, but under the antiventilation/cavitation plate is an adjustable exhaust snout. Adjust it so that the exhaust is aimed left.
 

bentle

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 2, 2011
Messages
492
Re: 1998 Force 120 (1998 Bayliner) Stiff Steering when in water

On 84-94 has what is called the exhaust snout. 95 and up have what is called a trim tab which is what yours has or shout have. It sits just above the prop and is round with a fin pointing downward.. you will need to adjust the steer pulling from there.
 

bingbong

Cadet
Joined
Mar 28, 2012
Messages
21
Re: 1998 Force 120 (1998 Bayliner) Stiff Steering when in water

The trim tab will really make it that hard to turn?
 

jerryjerry05

Supreme Mariner
Joined
May 7, 2008
Messages
17,923
Re: 1998 Force 120 (1998 Bayliner) Stiff Steering when in water

Yes.
If it turns hard to the right turn the tab to the right.
 

bingbong

Cadet
Joined
Mar 28, 2012
Messages
21
Re: 1998 Force 120 (1998 Bayliner) Stiff Steering when in water

You were right, trim tab fixed it. I have it turned all the way to the right now, but it works great.

Thanks for your help!
 
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