Stiff Steering 1954 Johnson 10hp

[sobgtp]

I have a good running 10hp 1954 Johnson, Model QD-15

When I got this motor the previous owner told me the steering bushings were gone and that he just loaded the steering joints up with grease. This seems to provide a temporary fix but I was looking for a permanent fix and one that is not so messy since I am constantly loading and unloading the engine. I have tried searching but either this is not a common problem or I am not searching for the right terms.

I am wondering if the parts to repair this are available and how difficult of a job it is?

Thanks
Shawn

 

[F_R]

Re: Stiff Steering 1954 Johnson 10hp

So, the steering is tight? That's fairly common, especially if it has ever been used in salt water. But it happens in fresh water too. The problem is corrosion build-up around the outside of the steering pivot bushing. You can put up with it as long as you don't mind the stiff steering, but eventually it will have to be disassembled and cleaned out and re-lubed.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Stiff Steering 1954 Johnson 10hp

There is a tension screw I wonder if it is causing a problem?
I know nothing about the 10 hp but it does seem odd that if it takes greese it still gets stiff.

 

[sobgtp]

Re: Stiff Steering 1954 Johnson 10hp

Thanks Guys,

Right now the steering is not too bad for me, I don't know how bad it would get if I didn't grease it up and I have not let it get to the point were it was really tight.

How involved is the disassembly? I would not imagine that it has been cleaned in a while and I will not have it in the water again until the spring so I am up for it.