Steering Stiffness

[nabeel]

I have a 1989 DT-40 with steering wheel. The steering is very very stiff from the middle through full left turn. I've greased the bracket well thru the two grease nipples on the bracket. I've disconnect the "drag arm" from the steering and the motor pivots left and right just fine.

I'm wondering what I might do to get at whatever corrosion is causing this stiffness. I can loosen the nut where the steering cable enters the motor bracket. Should I spray something like liquid wrench into there?

I'm not sure I can pull the steering cable out of the bracket. The "bushings" that go into the bracket look pretty rusty.

I would appreciate any guidance you can give me.

 

[nabeel]

Re: Steering Stiffness

I suppose I solved it myself. No, spraying liquid wrench in there would not have worked.

Using a socket wrench extention, I tapped on the end of the steering rod cable and got it out of the bracket. I should have been able to simply pull it out. The stainless rod on the end of the steering cable moves back and forth through the tube in the engine bracket. That tube on the engine bracket was full of grit and water and almost no lubrication. With paint thinner and a toothbrush, I cleaned it as best I could. I then greased up all parts with water resistent grease. I was then able to re-insert the steering cable tube --without hammering this time! Now the steering works well.

In the long run I really need a new tube that goes through the engine bracket. It is rusty and leaks water and grit.

 

[JUSTINTIME]

Re: Steering Stiffness

yep replace that tube