1981 Caravelle tough to steer

[m*a*baity]

I have an 81 Caravelle with a merc 140 engine. Alpha one outdrive, the older one I am told. 17ft. that thing is hell to turn. sometimes it turns no prob but most times it takes all the elbow grease you can get. Was power steering not an option those years? New steering cable? thanks

 

[maxxman04]

Re: 1981 Caravelle tough to steer

stiff ujoint on input/drive shaft (from motor to outdrive)? 140hp in 17ft boat should be pretty easy to turn.

 

[m*a*baity]

Re: 1981 Caravelle tough to steer

at times it is fine. when in reverse steering is a breeze. on the gas or dive into a turn can barely pull it out.