co-pilot 2001 Yamaha 80HP Tiller, ?????

[3ft]

Anybody know If Yamaha went to a heavier duty unit on the more recent models? or does anybody know of an aftermarket company that makes a better unit? Have bent the rod twice(replaced once), and the adjustable friction peice is wearing rather quickly.....Love the motor, just need to get this problem sorted out.

Co-pilot....Rod coming off front of motor that you can adjust so when you let go of the motor it stays at the same position.

Thanks for any and all input, Jeremy