Outboard steering issues

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bert0168

Cadet
Joined
Sep 10, 2007
Messages
7
I have a 69 Chris Craft with a 100 HP Johnson outboard. A previous owner installed a Teleflex steering wheel which I think is too small. Unfortunately I don't have dimensions as the boat is at the shop now.

I seem to be having problems with hard steering at low RPM's. The boat steers better at WOT on plane. I was wondering if it is an issue with the wheel being too small vs. the torque produced at lower idle or if there could be a problem with the internal cable. I am not sure if it is even possible to pull the cable out of the sleeve to lubricate it. It is a mechanical system.

Anybody have any ideas as to what I should check out first?
 
tashasdaddy

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Nov 11, 2005
Messages
51,019
Re: Outboard steering issues

disconnect the coupling at the motor, turn each, if the cable has a tight bend, it makes it stiffer to turn. there are no ways to lube the cable.
 
B

bert0168

Cadet
Joined
Sep 10, 2007
Messages
7
Re: Outboard steering issues

disconnect the coupling at the motor, turn each,
Click to expand...

Thanks for the reply.

What do you mean by "turn each"

It is possible the cable makes too sharp of a turn but I am not sure how to route to cable any differently. It runs up inside under the gunwale, then comes out at a little more than 90 deg and into the motor well
 
DRIFTER_016

DRIFTER_016

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
May 5, 2008
Messages
360
Re: Outboard steering issues

He means with the steering disconnected at the motor 1/ turn the steering wheel and check to see if it's tight. If it is there is most likely an issue with the cable or less likely the helm. 2/ turn the motor right and left by hand if its tight it needs greasing up (grease fitting in the middle part of the engine by tilt mech)

If all is ok try adjusting your trim as this will make a difference is steering effort needed.
 
B

bert0168

Cadet
Joined
Sep 10, 2007
Messages
7
Re: Outboard steering issues

Thanks for the help, I'll try it as soon as I get it back.
 
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