How to tighten up rack/pinion slack in steering

[JonBoat55]

Steering has always had about an inch of slack back and forth before engaging the tiler. I feel like it's gotten a little worse. Is this a normal amount of slack and how would I go about tightening it up?

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,..... Odds are, the rack, or pinion gear, or the cable housing is worn,......
The "Fix", is replacement,....

 

[Lou C]

Might as well replace both at this point

 

[dingbat]

All connections tight?
Mine NFB helm was getting loose to the point I was researching new helms. Crawled under the helm to get a part number off the unit. Found both steering cable nuts loose. Quarter turn on each nut snugged them right up.

To answer your question, I’ve had roughly 1/2” of play since new.

 

[nola mike]

Didn't see what we're working on, but may want to check to make sure that your steering pin isn't worn out

 

[JonBoat55]

The slack ends at the end of the cable in the engine bay, somewhere in between the wheel and the tiler. First thing I did was go under the helm and see what could be tighten. Seems to be a self-contained unit, no steering cable bolts to be found. I was more wondering if it can be tighter in the engine bay section.

 

[Bondo]

The slack ends at the end of the cable in the engine bay, somewhere in between the wheel and the tiler. First thing I did was go under the helm and see what could be tighten. Seems to be a self-contained unit, no steering cable bolts to be found. I was more wondering if it can be tighter in the engine bay section.

Ayuh,...... Sounds like the outer cable sheath has a grove worn in it, allowing the inner(working cable) to move, before it can push/ pull the tiller arm,...

 

[Stinnett21]

That appears to be the same steering as mine...the back rack system. That amount of play seems normal

 

[Stinnett21]

I replaced my cable a few years ago due to wear. The amount of play did not improve. I think it's inherently a bit sloppy. Thankfully under power I really don't notice it.

 

[JonBoat55]

Y

I replaced my cable a few years ago due to wear. The amount of play did not improve. I think it's inherently a bit sloppy. Thankfully under power I really don't notice it

Yeah, under power it's a non-issue. Just thought if it was a simple fix, having tighter steering would be positive. Good info Stinnett, thanks