Steering seized

[jarob]

'84 johno 90hp. Steering was a bit stiff when I purchased the boat some 18 months ago and the mech. advised and replaced the steering unit, wheel (as it wouldn't fit) and cable. The result was a little better but now after wintering over its stuck solid. Assuming the new gear is okay what is the next step.?

 

[OBJ]

Re: Steering seized

jarob....disconnect the steering cable from the motor and swing the engine by hand. Just may need some grease applied to the swivel bracket.<br /><br />If the engine swings free, then the problem is in the steering set up. Is this a rack and pinion or rotary?

 

[moderator1]

Re: Steering seized

Moving to Boat questions.

 

[Mettaree]

Re: Steering seized

When you disconnect the steering at the motor make sure the rod slides freely in the tilt tube. They can get gunked up pretty good and not much trouble to clean out.<br />Jim

 

[jarob]

Re: Steering seized

The steering is rotary. I can't work on it for a couple of days but I am sure it is at the motor end. When I do remove the cable, and if it is in the rod slide, how do I free it up if it is seized solid ? I can't work on it for a couple of days but will get back to you.

 

[Mettaree]

Re: Steering seized

jarob : Find a wire brush like the bronze ones you use to clean rifles and shotguns that fits the tilt tube tightly. Chuck in a drill = might have to use a drill extension or wrap some emery cloth around a dowel rod and go to work on it.<br />Jim

 

[jarob]

Re: Steering seized

Well the rod in the tilt tube was stuck real good as you suggested JKW1939, so I had to take it to my mech. who finally whacked it out and had to sand blast it cause it was in such a state and now its really good and free and I can get some grease into the nipples for a change...thanx