Pulley and Cable Steering Requirements

[Ski-daddle]

I have a 1949 14' wooden runabout with a 1968 65 hp outboard that has pulley and cable steering. I took it to the local shop for repair and was told that for an engine that size I am required to have a linear cable (rack and pinion) steering system. This was new information to me. Can anyone provide information on the regulations (USCG?) for pulley and cable steering?

 

[GA_Boater]

There is no CG requirement. The shop is lying to you. Also why did he say rack and pinion, don't rotary steering system meet the non-existent CG regs?

iboats sells all the pulleys, springs and cable you need. Better call the Coast Guard. :smile:

 

[jbcurt00]

There is no CG requirement. The shop is lying to you. Also why did he say rack and pinion

Probably has an R&P they wanted to sell. They are also usually more expensive then the rotary...

 

[Chris1956]

The boating shop was citing a common belief. It is common to recommend R&P or Rotary steering for boats over 50HP. I do not know of a USCG requirement for same. In addition, it is unusual for a 14' boat to have a 65HP motor on it. Normally they are limited to 45 or 50HP. Just so you know, the largest motor avail in 1949, was a lot less than 65HP. Johnnyrude did not manufacture a 65HP motor until the early 60's.

IMHO, you should consider a R&P or Rotary steering system. You would not want that large of a motor to break loose from the steering at high speed.

 

[GA_Boater]

^^^^^^ Much better advice than cable and pulley steering is illegal.

 

[Ski-daddle]

Thank you gentlemen. The only real problem I have is the transom well is so narrow in my boat that I can't fit the working end of the system into it. If I am to add R&P or PP steering, the only option I have is to raise the transom 3" so the steering arm is raised above the deck. By doing that I would have to then change the engine from a short to long lower unit, Way more complicated than I would like...

 

[Woodonglass]

Not True!! They make a Transom Mount Bracket to work with Teleflex Steering!