Hard Steering Merc 115 4 Stroke

[edmezz]

I have a brand new 115 merc four stroke on a 25 foot pontoon boat. Motor steers fine on the trailer and at low speeds but gets very stiff at high speeds.<br /><br />Dealer says this is the way all big outboards are and that we just have to live with it. Is this true? Would appreciate input from anyone with mid size Merc, evinrude,honda, yamaha,etc.<br /><br />Thank you.

 

[ivar]

Re: Hard Steering Merc 115 4 Stroke

Is it equally hard to steer in both directions , or does it pull to one direction at speed?<br /><br />If it pulls only to one direction , you can adjust the trim tab on the lower unit. Under a rubber plug on the lower unit you'll find a nut which secures the tab. Loosen it a little bit and adjust the tab a little bit towards the direction the boat pulls. <br /><br />Else you can upgrade the steering to a non-feedback type , or to hydraulic , to get a steering witch requires less effort.

 

[BlackSmoke]

Re: Hard Steering Merc 115 4 Stroke

I'm having exact same problem with my '69 120 hp sterndrive. Very slight torque tab adjustment made no difference. Guess I'll increase adjustment and see what happens.