Console steer question

[ShadowWalker]

I just picked up a boat today that has a 1987 35 hp mercury with remote steering. It appears to be rotary steer. It will turn, but it is definately hard to do. Is there anything I can try to loosen it up before resorting to a new cable? This is my first console steer boat and I don't know much about it yet.

 

[Captain Ahab]

What type of steering system - is it hydraulic (it should be) if so, what make and model?

Check the fluid level at the pump The pump is manual, it is attached to the back steering wheel

If not, check the condition of cylinder - when it is extended is there any scratches or pitting? Also, is there any signs of leakage?

 

[ShadowWalker]

no it is not hydraulic, it is rotary steering with a cable.

 

[Captain Ahab]

no it is not hydraulic, it is rotary steering with a cable.

My bad - I re-read your post again an this time truied to pay attention


Man, I need more coffee

 

[bassboy1]

Unscrew the cable from the rotary device and see if you can't work some grease down it. Sometimes they just dry up, and need a little more grease.

 

[ShadowWalker]

I'm gonna give it a try. I am hoping to make it through at least the rest of bowfishing season without replacing the cable. There are a couple small splits in the rubber, but nothing terrible. Of course for the price I paid I can't complain.

 

[wasilvers]

I feel your pain, My boat was new to me this year and the steering was hard to turn. I regreased it in a few places and it got a bit easier but still noticably hard. What helped the most was just using it - once I started using the thing and put some miles on the boat, it loosened up enough so my kids could turn it.

One test to do is disconnect the steering from the motor, where it meets the motor. If the motor turns pretty easily by hand (considering the weight of the engine) then the problem is in the wheel, cable, or cylinder. If the motor itself is still hard to move, then it the motor mount(whatever you call it) needs more/new grease. I think mine could use a new cable myself.

At least that will get you diagnosing which side of the connection to look at.

Will

 

[ShadowWalker]

We greased the motor pivot and work it back and forth and she loosened right up. I don't think there was much grease left in it because I bet I pumped the grease gun a good 20-30 times before anything came out of the bottom.