New to boating. couple questions

[Stephendhumphreys]

I just got a 1997 Bayliner Capri 1950Cl. Took it out for the first time today and the steering is like trying to drive a big rig with no power steering. Is that normal? Can anyone give me some information on this matter? If this has been covered in another post please let me know. Thank you.

 

[harringtondav]

I see from your earlier post that you posted in the Merc. Sterndrives section. You may want to move your question there. Important is the engine model and stern drive model. I assume you have power steering, but you need to verify that. Does your engine have a belt driven power steering pump mounted? At the rear of the engine compartment is the steering cable directly connected to the steering arm, or is it connected to a steering valve/steering cylinder? This info is necessary to help you.