Steering link arm for 78 Mercury 700

[MFGguy]

Does anybody know a part number or source for a steering link arm for a 1978 Mercury 700 70HP outboard (serial # 4995195)? I just replaced/upgraded the helm and steering cable on my boat with a new Teleflex through-the-tilt-tube steering system after the 35 year old one finally seized up. The old steering system didnt use a link arm - new one does. Of course, the link arm that came with the motor and was lying around the garage for years is now MIA. I remember it looked like a standard link arm but had a slight bend/angle near the engine end. I checked with two local marinas (Merc dealers)and had no luck identifying the part number. Tried a straight Teleflex arm but it hit the engine cover when the steering wheel was turned hard to port so the one I need must have the bend in it. I searched posts here and tried looking it up at mercruiserparts.com but could not find it there either. I'd appreciate any help - not fun being run aground in my driveway!

[Chris1956]

That is a strange story, My '77 Merc 1500 uses a standard teleflex arm (I think). I know I purchased one 4-5 years ago, and just grabbed the standard one. The one on my motor has a single 90 degree bend where it attaches to the cable end, and a "knuckle" joint where it attaches to the motor. Is it possible your Merc has somthing other than the standard connection. That steering arm on the motor was standard for many years on a whole bunch of motors (3-4-6 cyl inlines)

[MFGguy]

Thanks for the reply Chris. It looks like the engine has a standard connection but I can't be sure since I haven't seen many old mercs. I solved the problem by using an old OMC steering arm with a slight angle to it. I found a place about a half hour drive away that sells old outboard parts (The Outboard Exchange, Waterford CT), brought the Teleflex arm for comparison, and left with one that worked perfectly. I just had to get a bushing and a few stainless self-locking nuts and washers. I should be on the water this weekend!