Going down with the ship

[Fishing with Fow]

I was able to purchase a mint 1990 Cajun pro sport 178 bass boat. Of course being 30 years old, there was a few things that needed to be fixed. I was able to fix the wiring and trolling motor with ease. I should have known trouble was ahead.

The boat was impossible to steer. I knew this meant the steering cable needed to be replaced. I loaded YouTube and I was ready to dive in. I remove the old one with ease, replaced it with a brand new one, no worries. I thought maybe I'd start doing this on the side and make some extra money. Save guys from getting nailed at the shop.

Then we make our way to the hel . I couldn't for the life or me get the steweint wheel off. I think its original to the boat and was corrode there. I spent three days trying everything, when finally I sawed the wheel off from the helm.

I think I have a big problem and need help. It's my second boat and relatively new to the mechanically side or things. If I can get the bezel off I may finally be able to get the boat on the water this weekend. Bezel screws stripped and not able to turn. I'm lost. Help. Man over board.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Cut off the shaft, buy a new helm and cable kit along with a new wheel

 

[GA_Boater]

Welcome aboard.

You better rethink thoughts of a side job.

 

[Fishing with Fow]

Cut off the shaft, buy a new helm and cable kit along with a new wheel

How would I do this? I assume cut through the bezel and that would give me access?

I have a new helm, cable kit and bezel. I just cant get the old components out

 

[GA_Boater]

Drill the heads on the screws, just like drilling a rivet.

 

[Scott Danforth]

How would I do this? I assume cut through the bezel and that would give me access?

I have a new helm, cable kit and bezel. I just cant get the old components out

Sawzall, right below the wheel hub

 

[appleo]

Helms often have nuts on backside.

If yes. remove nuts everything will fall out

 

[Fishing with Fow]

Sawing it off worked. Steering was perfect. I just recent bottomed out and my motor hit bottom. (Channel wasn't marked)

Steering now only turns one way. Thoughts?

Thank you everyone for your help.