Burrs in tilt tube??

Dennis G

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Sep 30, 2004
Messages
86
After hammering for a week on steering rod to get it out of tilt tube in 1986 2 stroke 150 HP blackmax, it finally came out. There are a couple of nicks on the outside of the rod but not from me hammering on it which leads me to believe that the tilt tube has rough spots inside it. Is the tilt tube galvanized steel? If so, it is probably corroded from past saltwater usage before i bought the boat. Strange, though, that the nicks on the steering rod were not long scratches from pulling it out. Just nicks in a precise small area (1/8" long). Can the tilt tube be honed out without having to be replaced?
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,099
Re: Burrs in tilt tube??

Dennis, It is likely the tilt tube is not galvanized. I would clean it up with a pipe cleaner and inspect for burrs not near the edge. The burrs on the edge can be smoothed with a round rile. Then try the new steering cable rod for smooth operation.
 

Laddies

Banned
Joined
Sep 10, 2004
Messages
12,218
Re: Burrs in tilt tube??

A ball hone for brake cylinders will work well also
 

AMD Rules

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Sep 23, 2004
Messages
1,707
Re: Burrs in tilt tube??

Perhaps get some valve lapping compound, or similar abrasive and apply some to the slidiing surfaces of the steering rod and bore of the tube. Slide it in & out, rotate it around, etc. With some patience it should free up after a while. When you're done, clean it to remove any leftover compound and apply appropriate lube/grease.
 

rodbolt

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 1, 2003
Messages
20,066
Re: Burrs in tilt tube??

the ball hone works great. trust me. I use them all the time. snap on has one with a 10" shaft. good luck and keep posting
 

Dennis G

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Sep 30, 2004
Messages
86
Re: Burrs in tilt tube??

Thanks for tips. I'll buy a ball hone. Anxious to get my rig back in the water ASAP. Best regards, Dennis G.
 
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