Hard steering.

[jerryjerry05]

1994 115 P115TLRS 060713
Steering is VERRRRY tight, tried to use heat and add grease and it still is very tight.
I don't have a service manual.
I know it's a big job, any tips or procedures to fix the kingpin and bushings??
Thanks

 

[Kola16]

Did you disconnect the steering cable from the outboard and turn the wheel to make sure the problem is on the outboard side? Just an easy check before you dive into the steering bracket of the outboard. If you have already checked that and you are sure it is in the outboard bracket, here is a video of a similar engine being worked on:

He does not get to the bottom of it in that issue, but he shows a lot of the steps that need to be done. Here is a video the same guy does successfully on a smaller Mercury:

 

[jerryjerry05]

Thanks for the video's.
Way too big of a job.
I did use a torch and loosened it up about 25%.

 

[Chris1956]

Something else that can help is to figure out where the steering is corroded. Usually it is the top bushing of the swivel shaft. If you can get some grease into the offending bushing, it can loosen up.

If the top bushing needs grease, tilt the motor up fully. I then use a rope around the gearcase and transom clamp to help work the motor up on the swivel pin, adding space to the top bushing. Tighten the rope like a tourniquet. Now vigorously pump some grease into the swivel rod.