1998 75HP Force 2 stroke - steering/boat safe? - lost retainer on lower swivel post

[cmeboat]

I suspect there are quite a few boaters who have never got down on there knees to see if their retainer ring or keeper has failed - mine failed and after much collaboration with a few local boaters I think I have a solution - I would like input as the local boat yard wants to pull the power head and replace the steering swivel post (I do not have the money for that) ... anyway, here goes ...

After using our 17.5', 1992 Sea Nymph and while flushing the OB (we only boat in salt water) - I notice a keeper ring/retainer ring has fallen down from the bottom of the steering tube/shaft (steering swivel post usually located just below the lower clamp-on bushing) - the gear shifter rod runs up the hollow steering swivel post to the power head

Some boats have a spring retainer but this one has a big old brass (or equivalent) ring that fits into a groove on the bottom of the steering tube/shaft

Close inspection showed that the bottom of the steering tube is rusting away and that is why the retainer fell off (not much of a groove left)

QUESTION - my buddy and I have examined the motor and the way we figure it (yes, that is how most trouble starts) as long as the OB is always straight down and not pushing the boat while it is tilted slightly we think it is safe to use (IS IT?) - we just can't see how the steering shaft can ride up - we can't believe that just that little retainer keeps the whole shaft in place - AND since there is approx 3/8" of tube left we are going to drill a hole across and insert a cotter pin (to serve the same purpose, albeit not as well, as the retainer/ring)


See pics - appreciate your input

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 1998 75HP Force 2 stroke - steering/boat safe? - lost retainer on lower swivel po

Now I need to get dressed and check my 75. The kingpin (steering tube) is usually clamped to the lower motor mount. See first photo, piece with two bolts, right above speedometer tube.

As such, the kingpin is solidly attached to the engine lower pan and motor mounts. SO, it turns with the engine leg while the yoke and mounting clamps stay stationary.

I don't think there is any danger at all of losing the kingpin or it riding--either up or down. I don't think you need to drill and insert a cotterpin unless it makes you feel better. Replacing it by removing the powerhead is going to be costly in labor and possibly wasted money.

HOWEVER: with that much corrosion, there is a excellent chance that the yoke is corroding inside too. Eventually, you may find steering getting tight and that is when replacing the kingpin becomes a miserable job.

If at the current time you are not having any steering problems, keep the yoke well greased--do it three or more times a season and it would not hurt to do it every week. Hopefully this will forestall any problems later on.

 

[RRitt]

Re: 1998 75HP Force 2 stroke - steering/boat safe? - lost retainer on lower swivel po

a nice strong bit of steel cable tied to the engine at one end and transom at other.
then if it falls off you can fish it out.

 

[cmeboat]

Re: 1998 75HP Force 2 stroke - steering/boat safe? - lost retainer on lower swivel po

Thank you for the replies - we are going to keep using the boat - I have been greasing it regularly and will increase that to after every use

Good boating to all!