Stiff power steering

[Leardriver]

Hi guys!

Sea Ray Sundeck, 496 mag,​ motor OM672099, drive OM701661. Fresh water, under 100 hours.

The steering effort at the wheel is excessive. I have lubricated the ram at the actuator behind the engine, drained and refilled the power steering reservoir with synthetic, started it, moved the wheel lock to lock to mix the fluid, drained and refilled again. The pump and belt doesn't squeal, it just has a heavy feel.

Is there a bearing under the steering wheel? Hidden grease zerk? Can I get a new steering cable and fix it?

Thanks for your suggestions.

 

[Leardriver]

After more searching, I found several recommendations about pulling and lubing the rod that the steering cable attaches to, so I did that.
Undid the nut, pulled the cotter pin on the other side of the rod, slid the rod out to starboard, which is the threaded nut side, and while it wasn't in the driest shape ever, I am hoping that it is happy with cleaning and greasing. The wrench on the big nut is 1 1/8. A crescent will fit. The Corsa switchable exhaust has a lot of sharp edges that match the bloody holes in my flesh.

With the 496 engine, I couldn't be much bigger (fatter) and still get in there. Laying on top of a life jacket gives your chest a little relief.

I am anxious to lake test and report back. Open to any other suggestions.​