It's full of rust but is this dangerous?

[Salty Sal]

I'll try to explain because I don't what you call it. I you are facing the outboard from the front-the large in/or bolt that (as it seems) allows the engine to tilt is VERY rusty. It runs directly parallel to the transom. Is this a solid metal pin?How concerned should I be? The engine is a 1985 140 hp engine. Hard to replace? Expensive?

[JB]

Moving to General Outboard

[roscoe]

Are you referring to the tilt tube?THe steering cable goes into one end, and out the other end?This is what the motor rotates on when tilted up and down and therefore supports a lot of weight. I would be concerned, but its hard to tell how much without seeing it.

[Salty Sal]

That's what it is. Is it solid?

[Cricket Too]

Sal...are you talking about the tilt tube itself or the steering ram from the cable that goes through it? The tilt tube is hollow, as the steering ram goes through the inside of it, but not neccessarily thin, it's a pretty sturdy tube, depending on how bad it is rusted it could be fine or could be rotting and weakening. I'm assuming in your line of work, you would be able to take a digital picture and post it here and maybe we could take a look and tell you a little more. P.S. I work in the city also, sucks when it's nice out and you know your boat is just sitting there waiting to be used, huh.

[Salty Sal]

Hi mmcpeck - It's the visible bar that fits between two round open slots.Doesn't look like the steering connects to it(visual memory)I just had a new powerhead put on last year (lost 1/2 a season) and I'm surprised the mechanic didn't mention it since the engine was out of the cowl. NOW I am looking at everything with more of an awareness.Maybe a bit overworried about nothingDo you suggest I try to sand it down? Good idea about a digital shot. Thanks for your reply and yes.... it's a "bleep" to work instead of fish on a nice day!