Rack and Pinion Steering

[Steele329]

Hi, I am in the process of attempting to change out my steering cable and just have a few questions. The helm (I think thats what it is) that holds the steering wheel to it on my boat had an extra piece at the top that was supposed to keep the rack in place when turning. When I took it out I realized that it was broken so really nothing was keeping it in place. The kits that they sell don't look like they have that extra piece. What keeps this from turning when you turn the wheel? Does it screw to the fiberglass? Am I just not seeing it in the picture? Anything I might need to know before i purchase? Please help if you can thanks!

 

[southkogs]

Re: Rack and Pinion Steering

Might need to post photos to help out, but with most of the rack stuff you need to get the right rack to go with your helm. Depending on how old your helm is, you may need to replace it too.

What type of helm is your original?

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Rack and Pinion Steering

Normally the helm is bolted to the dashboard, and the rack is bolted to the helm at the pinon. Not sure what you have....how about a picture.

 

[Steele329]

I hope you can see what I am talking about. At the top there is a piece that is supposed to sit in a hole drilled half way through the fiberglass on the underside of the dash. I don't see that on any of the kits so I am assuming it bolts to the fiberglass? I really dont know this is a first for me. Thanks!

PS, the piece I am talking about in the picture is broken. It is supposed to extend out another two or three inches.

One more thing. The cable is a detmar H1 16FT BGT as for helm I don't know for sure but they worked right along until the cable broke. Thanks

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Rack and Pinion Steering

I have not seen one of those before. Looks to be an old, unique design. Maybe the helm tightened that piece to friction fit against the inside of the sashboard to hold the helm in place?

Since you need to change the cable anyway, why not get a whole new steering system? You may be able to reuse the steering wheel.

 

[Steele329]

Re: Rack and Pinion Steering

Thanks. I talked to teleflex I think I have the right part. I just hope it all works out.