Merc Alpha 4.3LX: Stiff Steering Problem

Engine: Mercruiser Alpha1 4.3L - year: early 90's (S/N:0F148565)

So, steering was stiff when I was first introduced to this boat by my father in law. I'm now trying to isolate and repair the issue.

First thought: steering cable. I isolated the cable, removing it from the steering column, and from the engine. When free, the cable moves smoothly at both ends, and the metal rods on the engine end are loose as well.

Steering wheel is loose and smooth when isolated.

Power steering fluid is clear and proper level.

Could the pump be shot? When on a plane, the steering is not only stiff, but she growls whenever i start a turn.

Could the arm going to the leg be seized? the leg wiggles by hand when the engine is off.

I don't know what else to look at before considering replacing the power steering pump and hoses. Could the ram be toast?

The only other thing that i noticed is the pin that connects the hydraulic ram to the metal arm from the transom is really stuck, as opposed to the pin at the end of the steering cable. I don't know though if its just stiff because the system is under pressure or not.

Any thoughts for where to look next?

Thank you,

Tom

Re: Merc Alpha 4.3LX: Stiff Steering Problem

pull the outdrive, the growling may be caused by water that got in the boot
and froze the U joints , and/or gimbal bearing

Re: Merc Alpha 4.3LX: Stiff Steering Problem

Read a bit more on that. Thanks for the suggestion.

Do you think that problem would be the cause of the stiff stearing as well?