'73 starcraft steering question

[Watkins]

The steering on my 16-foot '73 starcraft runabout finally crapped out.
I need a modern upgrade. I have a 50 hsp Yamaha on her.
The current system uses a cable arm that comes out of transom hole and pivots on a ball and socket and attaches directly to outboard steering arm. I'd like to come through the steering tube and around this time. Not sure if the cable will line up coming out of the transom, however.
Also, what type works best?
I see there are basically two types of mechanical steering systems:
-Rotary and rack & pinion. Do I need one with anti-feedback for a motor of this size?
Thanks in advance for any advice.

Leo in Rochester. NY

 

[Pugetsound]

Re: '73 starcraft steering question

The rack/pinion takes up more space than the rotary. I replaced my rack and pinion on my 16 SS on my recent rebuild. I just prefer the Pinion set up. Both work well and are very dependable. I believe you will need either one with a 13 ft cable. Be sure to measure accuratly. The TelFlex web site gives the proper way to do this. Easy job to do

 

[fshngho]

Re: '73 starcraft steering question

Leo, sounds like you have rotary. Probably cheaper just to replace the cable. If you go r&p, you will need complete set up. I would think either is fine for a 50hp due to not that great of torque produced by that size engine. I am honestly not sure if you can run a rotary through a sterering tube, but I can not see why not if size of cable is compatible. I'm sure wiser men than I can help you out.

 

[Pugetsound]

Re: '73 starcraft steering question

Do you have a photo of your present steering set up??? All steering (Tilt Tubes) are the same interior size. So any Rotary or R/P steering cable set up will fit. If yours is a Rotary and just connected to a transom bracket then to the motor steer connector than you will probably need a new 13 ft cable for it. About half the price of a complete unit. Thats why a photo will clear this up.

 

[Watkins]

Re: '73 starcraft steering question

sounds like a teleflex basic rotary will work for me. yes, it's a rotary I have know and it's stripped inside; won't turn motor to the right...was very hard to steer to begin with.
any advice on the operation at the motor? I have this direct link to the tiller arm right from the cable, but I'd like to use the tube. If so, I think I need a guide attachment and tie bar from Yamaha? Does this sound right?
thanks again

 

[Watkins]

Re: '73 starcraft steering question

cable and arm come up through transom and held by a pivoting bracket. I guess I'd need new hardware for a tube application, but that seems more solid and the way I'd like to go. As for rotary mechanism, it's stripped and won't turn the motor so I need a complete unit.
Thanks

 

[Pugetsound]

Re: '73 starcraft steering question

The Rotary cable will come along the side thru the splash hole and fit dirictly to the tilt tube( there should be nuts on the tube to secure it to . also the new cable or the Pinion steering will have connectors on them. What you might need is the from the steering rod end to the motor. You need to look at steering set ups on The Net ( Tel Flex Steering) to see what I am trying to say. You will be much better off connected to the motor with the steering. This may sound confusing but is actually very simple to do.